The Trangie community has rallied around the wife and children of Ryan Selway after the 29-year-old died in a car crash last week.
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Ryan, 29, died on the morning of Sunday, November 12 after the car he was a passenger in hit a tree on the Mitchell Highway west of Narromine.
The tragedy has left the Trangie community reeling. It has also brought out the best in people, with a fundraiser for the family raising more than $17,000 in just seven days following the accident.
Jess’s cousin Mel O’Mally set up the gofundme campaign to ease the financial burden on the family, and said she’s been “overwhelmed” by the support.
There are no words to describe how much Ryan will be missed.
- Mel O'Mally
“I have known Ryan since he and Jess were best friends, 14 years ago,” Mel said.
“I have watched their relationship develop over the years. Ryan was a loving and supportive partner to Jess and finally popped the question to Jess at her 30th birthday party.
“He was the best Dad to Tawhiao and Naia, he lived for his kids. He was a family man and was so protective of his children, his nieces and nephews.”
Ryan will be farewelled on Wednesday, November 22 at Lake Macquarie Memorial Park. That will be followed by a celebration of his life at Cardiff Wests from 2.30pm.
The funds raised by Mel will not go towards the funeral costs, but rather will be used to allow Jess to be with Tawhiao and Naia and “not have to worry about finances through such a tragic time”.
Mel said Ryan’s legacy would live on through his kids and through his music.
“I am absolutely overwhelmed with the love and support everyone has shown. I didn't expect it and I am so grateful for everyone's generosity,” she said.
“Jess hasn't really had an opportunity to see the extent of people’s generosity and support and I know once she does she will be blown away. Jess and Ryan’s families are incredibly grateful to the community, family and friends for all of their continued support and love through such a heart breaking time.
“Ryan … was the life of the party and the biggest larrikin … There are no words to describe how much Ryan will be missed.”
For more information, or to donate, visit www.gofundme.com/peuf3-support-for-jess-tawhiao-naia