Ryan Timothy Devenney, an esteemed architect, visionary entrepreneur, and avid outdoor enthusiast, passed away on May 14, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, inspiration and love. He was 37 years old.
Born on May 11, 1987, in Pequannock, Ryan was the cherished son of Joseph and Carol Devenney. From a young age, he displayed an innate talent for design, creativity and a boundless curiosity about the world around him. These qualities would shape his remarkable journey through life.
After completing his education, Ryan pursued his passion for architecture with unwavering determination. Between 2012 and 2019, he worked at BP Architects PC in New York City and then at Parette Somjen Architects and Jarmel Kizel Architects and Engineers in New Jersey. In June 2019, he founded his own firm, RD Architectural Design LLC, a firm known for its innovative designs, professionalism and commitment to excellence. Ryan transformed spaces and left an indelible mark on the homes, buildings and people he worked with.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ryan was a man of many passions. He had a keen eye for beauty, especially in nature, which he expressed through his love for photography. His breathtaking images captured the essence of the places he visited and served as a testament to his artistic talent.
Ryan’s thirst for adventure knew no bounds. He found solace in the great outdoors, spending countless hours exploring rugged landscapes and seeing the natural wonders of the world. He adored kayaking with friends. He would hike nearly every Saturday in his home state and explored much of the western United States with his family. With his brother, he reached the summits of two 14,000-foot mountains in Colorado, Mt. Princeton and Mt. Yale. Ryan’s love for travel was matched only by his love for his family and friends.
Ryan will be deeply missed by his loving family, including his parents, Joseph and Carol Devenney, his fiancé Syrene Faith Pangadlin and his brother, Christopher (Jeannette). He is also survived by his feline companions Shadow and Tiger.
He will also be fondly remembered by his colleagues, clients and friends, who were inspired by his passion for life, his eye toward humor and his dedication to his craft.
Family and friends may visit on Sunday, May 19, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Newbaker Funeral Home, 200 Route 94, Blairstown. A liturgy of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 20, at St. Joseph RC Church, 24 Halsted Street, Newton. Interment will be private.
Services have been entrusted to Newbaker Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, family would prefer donations to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. You can donate directly through his memorial at donate.nami.org/ryandevenney.