Ryan Joseph Yelton, age 37 of Burnsville, NC, went Home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
Born on December 30, 1987, he was the son of William and Marilyn Yelton and brother of Jason Yelton. Ryan was preceded in death by his sister, Alyssa Ann Yelton Henson.
Ryan was a huge sports fan and loved the Braves, the Lakers, especially Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi, the Chargers and the Miami Dolphins.
Ryan was a very loving person and would give the shirt off his back to anyone and loved and cared so much about his friends. Anytime they needed anything, he was always there. Ryan loved to quote his favorite movies, such as Step-Brothers (Yep!).
Ryan was always fun, positive, comical and just a kind human being. Ryan was the best person any friend, brother, and parent could ask for. He was the best of all of us and was taken away far too soon. Ryan was a full-time content creator online, and entertained thousands of followers live-streaming as CoolSchmo, your fun-loving shooter and sports gamer with the quick wit and easy humor, embodying authenticity and warmth.
He was a genuine friend to many, turning gaming moments into unforgettable experiences with his off-the-cuff commentary and heartfelt chats. Ryan’s strength lay in his unwavering dedication to those around him, always offering encouragement and companionship that made everyone feel seen and supported. Even when faced with personal challenges, Ryan stayed true to himself, never letting the pressures or struggles he encountered dim his spirit. His ability to remain a steadfast, genuine presence, and his insistence on being a ‘Buddy’ to all, left a lasting impact. The community he nurtured will forever hold dear the values of #SchmoStrong and #1Love, living on as a testament to his profound influence and steadfast friendship
Left to cherish Ryan’s memory are his parents, William and Marilyn Yelton; brother, Jason Yelton and wife, Heidi; grandfather, Ronald Gross; nieces: Kamilyn Henson and Harper Ammons; nephews: Heath and Harlen Ammons; brother-in-law, Will Henson (Heather); aunts and uncles: Allen and Paula Yelton, Alicia Powers (Dan), Mary Fido (Jerry), Kimberly Kolacz (Tim), Nancey Carollo (Frank), Billy Gross, and many cousins and friends: Shawn Barnes, Tommy Ferraro, Bobby Tolbert, Brad Lafave, Jesse Laughnburn, Corey Chandler, Matt Riggio, Jason Massie, Jason Spearson, Justin Profit, and Jesse Hensley.
Ryan will be laid to rest on Sunday, March 23, 2025. A graveside service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion Methodist Church Cemetery at 12 Franklintown Road, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. Reverend Steve Jones will be officiating.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Yelton family.
Online condolences may be made at holcombebrothersfuneralhome.com
