Ryan Carl Padgett

Ryan Carl Padgett “Pops”, 52, of Rusk, Texas, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on August 14, 2026. He was born on November 30, 1973, in Jacksonville, Texas. He was raised in Rusk and graduated from Rusk High School.
Ryan spent many years working on the pipeline as a consultant, where he built not only a career, but a second family. His “pipeline family” was a very important part of his life, and the friendships he made throughout the years meant more to him than words can express. He was blessed with many close friends, and it was not unusual for Ryan to spend hours on the phone talking, laughing, and keeping up with those he cared about. Those friendships were a reflection of the kind of person Ryan was—loyal, genuine, and always there for the people he loved.
Ryan was full of life and had a personality that was impossible to forget. He loved to joke around, make people laugh, and never missed an opportunity to have a little fun. He especially loved to scare or startle people, and many friends and family members undoubtedly have a story about Ryan sneaking up on them. His laughter, his jokes, and his playful spirit brought joy to those around him and will be deeply missed.
Above all, Ryan loved his family. He treasured time spent hunting and fishing, being in the kitchen, cooking good food, and sharing it with the people he loved. Some of his happiest moments were those spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he loved watching them grow and making memories with each of them.
Ryan is survived by his loving wife, Sally Padgett; his mother, Lynn Padgett; daughters, Maci Choate, Tori Dement and husband Lance, and Kaleigh Padgett; and his grandchildren, Alli Dowling, Nick Wood, Kenny Dement, Kyler Wood, and Kolton Dement; and his beloved Uncle Alan and Aunt Carolyn. He also leaves behind countless friends, coworkers, and members of his pipeline family who loved and cared for him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his son, Keith Padgett; his father, WL Padgett; and his brother, Wayd Padgett.
Ryan leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, stories, and friendships. Though his voice will no longer be heard on those daily phone calls and his next practical joke will never come, the love and laughter he gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His family and friends will forever remember a man who lived life fully, loved deeply, and never met a moment he couldn't turn into laughter. We have comfort in knowing that Ryan is no longer separated from his son, Keith or his father, WL. We can imagine that long-awaited reunion—a father embracing his son, a son reunited with his dad, and Ryan surrounded once again by those who went before him. Perhaps they are already sharing stories, laughing together, and welcoming him home.
A time of visitation will be held Friday, August 21, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Rusk, Texas. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow visitation, beginning at 10 a.m. Bro. Brad Turlington officiating.
Services are under the direction of the family.