Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

August 1, 2022

CHARLOTTE – Aria Dorothy Ryan passed away Monday, August 1, 2022 in the arms of her parents at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC after a hard fought battle with Infant Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia.

Aria was diagnosed with leukemia on Thanksgiving 2021 and immediately began chemotherapy treatment at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital, which she managed with unimaginable strength. With an infectious smile, piercing blue eyes and warrior spirit, she quickly became a favorite of the nurses and doctors who cared for her. During her hospital stays, Aria loved playing on her play mat, reading books and inquisitively watching to make sure the nurses were giving her the perfect care. The Street (Sesame) became a daily routine at 11 and listening to Elmo sing the letter of the day was an absolute highlight. Aria had to go through countless, grueling treatment regimens, but you would never have known it.  The grace and sheer joy this little girl had were unparalleled and forever an inspiration.  Between treatments, Aria thrived at home making the most of the time she had and getting plenty of snuggles and kisses from her favorite big sis, her dog, Marley.  She loved daily walks around the neighborhood, rocking in her swing and if you wanted to get the biggest smile, going for a stroll in her little pink car was the trick. She would give you the biggest wave and smile as she passed and you knew without a doubt she was happy. 

She is survived by her parents, Michael and Rachael Ryan; her grandparents, Daniel and Laurie Carpenito and Richard and Kimberlee Ryan; Aunts and Uncles, Ashley and Jeff Coble, Amanda Ryan and Josh Carpenito and cousin, Kathryn Coble, along with countless family members and friends who have loved and supported her.

A private memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s Chapel in Charlotte.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at Heist Brewery (Barrel Arts Location), 1030 Woodward Avenue in Charlotte.  (Casual attire or something that Aria would like.)

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Aria’s Go Fund Me at https://gofund.me/077bfca1.  The family will utilize the funds to honor her legacy by creating an organization or partnership in her name to help benefit other families following the same path.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.