BUXTON- Jason William Ryder, 45, passed away on December 5, 2024, just one day before he and his fiancée, Ashley Fisher, were set to marry. Jason's passing followed a long and difficult battle with alcohol addiction, ending with liver failure. Jason was surrounded by those who loved him in his final moments. His mother, Tammy held his hand till the end.
Born on January 23, 1979, at Westbrook Hospital, Jason was the son of Tammy A. Day Ryder and Lawrence L. Ryder. Jason grew up in Buxton and graduated from Bonny Eagle High School in 1998. Jason’s childhood was filled with adventure, including skiing every Saturday with his sister, Emily, at Shawnee Peak. He was also a volunteer firefighter with the Gorham Fire Department during his teenage years.
Jason's work ethic began early, taking his first job at Dunson School at age 15. Summers spent at his grandparents’ home in Windham were some of his happiest, riding bikes with his childhood friend Tony to fish at Sebago Basin. His love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, remained a constant throughout his life, with a fishing pole often riding along in his vehicle.
In 2016, Jason moved to Florida and worked for HP Communications, building cell phone towers across the U.S. It was on a job site in Tennessee that he met the love of his life, Ashley Fisher. The two quickly became inseparable, and in 2020, they moved back to Maine to be closer to family. Jason and Ashley were planning to marry on December 6, but tragically, Jason passed away the day before.
Jason is preceded in death by his grandparents Ralph and Shirley Day, Cleo and Richard Sanborn, and Nancy Ryder, as well as his childhood best friend, Joshua Warren.
He is survived by his fiancée, Ashley Fisher of Buxton, and her children, Jeremiah and Bryson Fisher of Tennessee; his parents, Lawrence and Tammy Ryder of Buxton; his sister, Emily Ryder of Gorham; his brother, Todd Ryder, and his wife, Hana Ryder, of Wells; his nieces, Bella and Avery Ryder; and his nephews, Keegan, Jacoby, and Austin Ryder. Jason is also survived by his grandfather- Dana Ryder. Jason will also be missed by his beloved dog, Susie.
Jason's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will never be forgotten. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.
Rest in peace, Jason. You will always be loved and remembered. Forever in our heart.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com