GENEVA, Ala. — With profound sadness and tender remembrance, family members are mourning the passing of Ryder James Blythers, who passed away on December 11, 2025, in Geneva, Alabama. Ryder was born on July 14, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, and though his time on earth was brief, his life left an immeasurable and lasting impact on all who knew and loved him.

Ryder was the cherished son of Macy Turner and De’Vonta Blythers, whose devotion and love surrounded him every day of his five months of life. Family members describe Ryder as a radiant source of joy, whose bright smile and joyful expressions brought comfort, laughter, and light into every room he entered.

Despite his young age, Ryder’s presence was deeply felt. Loved ones say his infectious happiness and gentle spirit had a remarkable way of drawing people together. He was a symbol of pure love, reminding everyone around him of the beauty found in life’s smallest moments.

Ryder is lovingly remembered by his parents, Macy and De’Vonta; his maternal grandparents, Mike and Tiffany Turner; his paternal grandparents, Bobbi Blythers, Corey Blythers, and Benita Blythers; and his great-grandparents, Karen and George Faas, and Richard and Luann Hawthorne. He will also be deeply missed by his aunts and uncles, Mikala Smith (Tyler), Cole Turner (Ashley), Jake Turner, Jay Fussell (Hubert), Destynie Blythers, and Cortnie Blythers.

Ryder’s short but meaningful life also touched his cousins, Rylee and Reese Smith, Xzavier Fussell, and Kylrina Campbell, all of whom treasured the precious time they were able to share with him.

He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents, Roy and Helen Creech, and his paternal great-great-grandparents, Alice Chidsey and Nellie Carter.

Though Ryder’s life was a brief gift, his family takes comfort in knowing that the love he gave and received will endure forever. They find peace in their faith, believing that Ryder is now resting in the arms of angels, his spirit continuing to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved him.

Funeral services honoring Ryder James Blythers will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Geneva, with Rev. Steve Skidmore and Rev. Zachary Hayes officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery, with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing services. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 12:30 p.m. prior to the service.

As family and community gather to remember Ryder, his life—though short—stands as a powerful reminder of love, innocence, and the deep bonds that connect us all.