Ryan Andrew Korte Rector, born on September 21, 1984, completed his earthly journey on March 6, 2025 at his home in Murfreesboro, TN. Born in Crossville, TN, Ryan spent his life in service to his country and in devotion to his loved ones. After graduating from Cumberland County High School in 2003, where he was a committed sports enthusiast, Ryan enlisted in the US Navy. His dedication and hard work led him through a series of notable assignments, including the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), the Riverine Squadron II, and Navy Station Guantanamo Bay Cuba. The words of John F. Kennedy echo in Ryan's life: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." Ryan embodied this ethos, demonstrating unwavering commitment and bravery.

Ryan is survived by his beloved daughter, Morgan Lee Rector, and her mother, Angela Moultrup of Michigan, his father, James Rector and step-mother, Diana, of Crossville, TN, and his half-sisters Cassandra Graham (Robert) of Spring Hill, TN, Courtney Barker(Terry), and Jaime Ridge(Tyler) of Crossville, TN. He leaves behind his aunts and uncles, Ronald and Kay Parrish of Murfreesboro, TN, Terri and Mike Davis of Lebanon, TN, and Denette and Steve Korte of Ramsey, IN. He will be greatly missed by his best friend, Alex Reed of Crossville, TN, along with many more family and friends. Ryan was predeceased by his mother, Tina Korte Priddy, his grandparents, Charlene and James Korte, and his uncle, James Mallory. His family and friends will continue to carry his spirit within their hearts, cherishing the memories made and the love shared.

Ryan's life will be celebrated on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Visitation will be held at 1pm at the Crossville Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2653 N. Main St., Crossville, Tennessee, 38555. A memorial service will follow at 3pm at the same location. As we remember Ryan, we are reminded of the Maya Angelou quote, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Ryan's life was a testament to this truth, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.

We invite all who knew Ryan to leave memories and upload photos to his memorial page. In celebrating his life, we not only mourn our loss but also honor a man who gave so much and asked so little in return.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in the memory of BM2 Ryan Rector. DAV.org, Honorary & Memorial Gifts, Honoree Name.