Ryan Courtney

Ryan Courtney was a dependable and loving husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. A lover of people with the gift of gab. Born September 30, 1949 in the small town of Livingston, Texas to Dawson and Ruth Courtney. While they moved to Tennessee for a stent, they returned to Texas, settling in Spring Branch, a community in Houston, Texas. The oldest of four (4), Ryan was a mentor and role model to his siblings, Keith, Blenda and Randy. Growing up he excelled in sports and lived a youth full of outdoor adventures. He met the love of his life, Paula Smith, in high school. After dating a few months their Senior year, they proceeded to pave their own paths; Ryan to UH to play football and Paula to The University of Texas; but true love had other plans and they were soon welcoming son Denver and six (6) years later their daughter Carey. While Ryan spent most of his life as a General Contractor and built beautiful homes, the most beautiful things he built were relationships. Because not only could he talk; he could listen. He created deep meaningful relationships with almost everyone he came in contact with. Ryan had a heart for men’s ministry and was a true spiritual leader; the ability to share his faith, his love and his wisdom with ease. A true athlete and avid outdoorsman, he continued to be active; playing tennis, softball, hunting, hiking, coaching, skiing, and of course, fishing. Always building, always an unfinished project, always a barn full of “things he could use later”, but always time for those nearest and dearest to his heart. He was a man filled with joy and the glue that held many together, a true connector. All who knew him will hold him forever in their hearts with great love.

He was preceded in death by parents Dawson and Ruth Courtney.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Paula; son, Denver Ryan Courtney; daughter, Carey Courtney Rodriguez (Kevin). Grandchildren, Devin Ryan Courtney, Ashley Courtney Clark (Newt), Cadyn Dakota Cross, and Emma Ryan Rodriguez and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A celebration of life will take place:

Monday, October 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

StoneBridge Church

1 StoneBridge Church Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77382

Ryan was a jeans, kind of guy, please come as you are. In lieu of flowers please feel free to make a donation to a ministry or cause that you feel led.