09/07/2026
Today we're sharing something a little more personal. ❤️
Cedar Creations is a family-owned business, proudly owned and operated by two families who work together to create the handcrafted furniture you've come to know us for. Today, we'd like to step away from furniture for just a moment to share something personal from one of those families—Ken and Jill Nelson and their family.
September is Su***de Prevention Month, and today, September 7, is a particularly meaningful day for the Nelson family.
Their son Ryan would have turned 26 today.
Ryan was a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, gifted runner and United States Marine. On September 13, 2020, just six days after celebrating his 20th birthday, Ryan died by su***de.
In the years since, the Nelson family has learned firsthand how deeply mental health struggles and su***de can affect a family. They have also learned the importance of talking about su***de, sharing Ryan's story, and reminding others that even in the darkest places, there is hope.
After Ryan died, his family discovered three words he had written on the first page of his Marine field journal:
God Above All Else.
Those words became the foundation for God Above All Else, a ministry created in Ryan's memory to share the hope found in Jesus Christ with those struggling with mental health and su***de, as well as those walking through the devastating loss of someone they love.
Ryan's legacy also continues through the Ryan Nelson Memorial Fund, held at the Jefferson Community Foundation. Gifts made to the fund are used to support causes that were near and dear to Ryan's heart and that continue his legacy—including mental health and su***de prevention, support for those impacted by su***de, veterans, Bible camp ministry, and other charitable causes that reflect Ryan's life and values.
During Su***de Prevention Month—and especially on Ryan's birthday—we wanted to use this little corner of social media for something more important than furniture: to remember Ryan, to share his story, and perhaps reach someone who needs hope today.
If you'd like to learn more about Ryan, his story, and the ministry that grew from it, please visit:
❤️ God Above All Else:
www.godaboveallelse.com
If you feel led to honor Ryan on what would have been his 26th birthday with a gift in his memory, donations can be made securely through the Jefferson Community Foundation's online giving platform. Simply select “Ryan Nelson Memorial Fund” from the fund dropdown menu.
❤️ Give in Ryan's Memory:
Ryan Nelson Memorial Fund – Online Giving https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/to-lift-peoples-lives
There is absolutely no expectation to give. Reading Ryan's story, sharing it with someone who may need encouragement, saying his name, or simply remembering him alongside the Nelson family means more than you know.
Happy 26th Birthday, Ryan. ❤️
Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.
God Above All Else.
