Ryan H. Koza

Ryan H. Koza, 22, a resident of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, passed away Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 at his home. He was born August 18, 2003 in Marion County, Indiana.

A former resident of Henry County, Ryan always wanted to be a Marine. He joined the “Young Marines” as soon as he could. On his 17th birthday, Ryan joined the Marines. He served in 2nd Bn, 6th MAR and then 1st Bn, 6th MAR in Camp Lejeune, NC. Ryan was also a member of 1st Bn, 6th MAR. He successfully completed two MEU/SOC deployments in his first four years of service. Ryan was currently awaiting A&S for MARSOC to be a Raider like his great-grandfather, Sgt. John V. Murphy. He was described by his Marines as an outstanding Marine and an amazing human being. He was a proud 0331 “Machine Gun Man”. During his service he earned a Navy Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons and the Navy Arctic Service Ribbon. He was a proud dual member of the American Legion Post #137/Sons of the American Legion Squadron #137. Being a fellow Belleau Woodsman, he proudly displayed the French Fourragere. An avid artist, Ryan enjoyed drawing, shooting, music and riding his motorcycle. He loved working out and taking runs with his dog, Moose, who inevitably ended up being carried on his shoulders.

Survivors include his wife, Ryley E. McCullough, father, Steven (Amy) Koza, mother, Charity (David) Hackney, siblings, Steven J. Koza II, Hannah E. Koza, Tomi D. (Nathan) Sauerhage, Katlynn E.J. (Riley) Morgan, Kirstie M. (Jason) Curtis, and Maggie A. (Mason) Johnson. Five nephews and a niece. But after all these fine people, he’ll miss Lita the most!

 He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Carolyn A. Koza.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 to 11:45 am, Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. A graveside service will be held at 12:00 pm Thursday, April 2, 2026 at South Mound Cemetery, Legion Hill. Ryan was a lover of all animals, so it is only fitting that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be directed to the Henry County Humane Society, 11 Midway Drive, New Castle, IN 47362. You may express condolences or share a memory of Ryan at www.hinsey-brown.com.