WILMINGTON — Ryan Daniel Tewell, 20, born April 13, 2000, passed away suddenly Sunday Sept. 6, 2020.
Ryan is survived by his mother, Melanie Tewell of Southport; brothers, H. John Erne and Nicolas Tewell of Southport; father, James D. Tewell of Supply; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by grandparents, Lonnie and Patricia Bullin of Wilmington; and grandmother, Vicki Tewell of Gary Indiana.
Ryan graduated from South Brunswick High School, Southport. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and the Trinity Youth Praise Band.
Ryan was blessed with a large, diverse group of friends that he loved dearly. His friends described him as real; someone who would be the “first to boost your confidence, but remind you to not get a big head.” Ryan had such a protective nature and so much integrity, never allowing anyone to be bullied, even if it put him in harm’s way.
Though Ryan had many interests, from show tunes to reading books on military history to gaming, his true passion and true love was the theatre. His first show was at the Amuzu in Southport at the age of 9. He progressed to Brunswick Little Theatre, where he had the opportunity to learn from retired professionals of the theatre world. It provided an opportunity to hone in on the gifts God had blessed him with. Countless mentors and theatre and church family were always there for Ryan. He was more himself on the stage than any other place, having the ability to captivate a room by simply walking in.
Ryan had a fierce love for his family. He was particularly close to his younger brother Nic, who he encouraged and protected without fail. Ryan’s love and strength and humor and silliness and talent and spirit will be greatly missed.
The outpouring of concern from the community over this tragedy signifies the impact this young man had to all he encountered. Ryan’s deep passion for the theatre and his concern over the survival of his precious home away from home during this time of Covid 19, was discussed many times. The family would ask if you would like to do something in honor of Ryan, please make a donation to Brunswick Little Theatre of Southport in his name.
A celebration service will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17. Due to Covid-19, there is a limit to the gathering and is by invitation only. However, services will be available through Southport Trinity UMC Facebook page, live at 7 p.m.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
