Jeffrey "Ryan" Lanford's Obituary
Jeffrey Ryan Lanford, 37, of Cornelius, died April 10, 2016. He was born in Gaston County on May 21, 1978 to Jacqueline Pittman Bassett and the late Jeffrey Scott Lanford. Ryan was diagnosed with 22q deletion syndrome in the early 90’s, a genetic disorder. He viewed the world through the eyes of a child, believing anything was possible. Introducing himself as Mr. Wonderful, Ryan was a very special light and a gift to all that had the pleasure of his presence. He was a rare soul that had a larger than life heart and a giving spirit. Through Ryan’s final gift, he was able to provide the hope for quality of life through tissue donation.
Ryan enjoyed being home and spending time with his family and particularly enjoyed time with the family’s three Shiba Inu dogs.
In addition to his mother, survivors include his step-father, Nelson Bassett and grandmothers, Joyce Pittman of Cornelius and Barbara Lanford of Dallas, NC. He is also survived by his uncle Terry Pittman, aunt Rhonda Lanford Jackson, and step-mother Rebecca Lanford.
Donations may be made to The Colorado Shiba Inu Rescue, 2233 E Panama Dr. Centennial. CO 80121 or The International 22q11.2 Foundation, Inc. PO Box 532 Matawan NJ 07747.
The Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, April 14 at 3pm in the chapel of Lake Norman Baptist Church in Huntersville, NC. Visitation with family will be from 2-3:00pm prior. A reception will follow at Chillfire Grill, 121-A Cross Center Road, Denver, NC 28037
James Funeral Home of Huntersville is serving the family.
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