Michael Anthony Ryan

Michael Anthony Ryan, affectionately known as Michael Anthony or “Red,” was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was defined by hard work, faith, and a genuine love for people.

Michael began landscaping in junior high, cutting grass and learning the value of honest labor at an early age. That strong work ethic carried him into a lifelong career in construction and landscaping. He worked faithfully until his health no longer allowed him to continue and later retired from SpawGlass Construction. During his career, Michael helped build a host of monumental Houston landmarks, including Methodist Hospital, the Astrodome, NRG Stadium (formerly Reliant Stadium), and Highway 288. His hands helped shape the city he loved, leaving a lasting legacy that will stand for generations.

He was the proud father of three children: twin sons Michael Buckingham and Marcus Buckingham, and his beloved daughter Michaela Antoinette Ryan. Michael’s greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren: Malik Ryan (8), Micah Buckingham, Talara Johnson, Jazzaria Duhon, Nyla Buckingham, Jade Buckingham, Kloe Buckingham, Vanlesha Houston, and Mia Buckingham, all of whom he loved dearly.

Michael attended Jones High School and grew up in Houston and Crockett, Texas. He knew the Lord and was baptized at Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where his faith journey began.

Michael was truly the life of the room. He never met a stranger, had a remarkable memory for names and faces, and his smile—with dimples always showing—was present no matter what he faced. He made people feel welcomed, valued, and remembered.

He leaves to cherish his legacy his loving siblings Juanita Lockhart, Nathaniel Ryan, and Vanessa Ryan, along with a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, extended family, and friends who will forever hold his memory close.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, James Ryan and Erma Ryan, affectionately known as “Mama Dear”; his grandson Chase Anthony Ryan; his siblings Shirley Allen Fowler, Leeandrew Lockhart (Pokie), David Earl Lockhart, Mary Jean Dawes, and James Lockhart (Jimmy); and his beloved aunts and uncles: Gracie Mae Evans, Eugene Lockhart Sr. (Bubba), Levi Lockhart Jr., Hazel Shepard, Essie Mae Watson, Leora Beasley, Albert Lockhart (Uncle Shoe), and Willie H. Lockhart (Bill).

Michael Anthony Ryan leaves behind a powerful legacy built not only of faith, resilience, laughter, and love, but also of steel and concrete—the materials he worked with to help build the city he loved, leaving a mark both in the community and in the hearts of all who knew him.

Viewing

Saturday, December 27, 2025

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

904 N 6th Street

Crockett, TX  75835

Service

Saturday, December 27, 2025

1:00 pm

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

904 N 6th Street

Crockett, TX  75835

Interment

City of Jasper Cemetery

Crockett, TX