07 Jan 2026
A special service celebrating the life of local dad Ryan Pring – the driving force behind a much-loved school sports club – will be taking place next week.
South African ex-pat Ryan was well-known locally for running the Super Kids Club and Supernastics with his wife Mandy, offering local children the chance to take part in ‘Supernastics’, cricket, rugby and other sports.
But aged just 43, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer – locally advanced colorectal cancer which spread to his lungs – and after a year-long battle, passed away on December 7.
His wife Mandy posted on Facebook: “My joyful, full-of-life, God-fearing, loving husband — and devoted father to our beautiful boys — passed peacefully late this morning.
“If you knew Ryan, you know how fiercely he loved people and how fully he embraced life. His laughter, kindness, and faith touched everyone he met. While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing he is now with his Heavenly Father, wrapped in perfect peace.”
The life celebration will be held at Forest Town Church, Lyon Way, on January 16 at 1.30pm, followed by a wake at Harpenden Rugby Club.
Speaking to the St Albans Times last September, Ryan said his faith had kept him going despite his diagnosis: “The Bible says that the peace of God surpasses all understanding, and I do have that absolute peace. I sleep well at night, besides the pain, and I don’t have any anxiety.
“The people around us also help. When I’m feeling a bit low, I get a message or a scripture from the Bible or something, and I’m like, OK, fight the good fight.”
Mandy added: “Ryan was a vital part of our community and played a huge role in child development across St Albans and the surrounding areas.
“He touched so many lives with his kindness, dedication, and love for others.
“We would love for you to come and join us as we celebrate Ryan’s life and remember the impact he had on us all.”
A JustGiving page set up by family friend Joanna Burkill raised more than £50,000 support the family when Ryan had to stop work. The Prings have three young sons, Matthew, 11, nine-year-old Jason and Tyren, five. You can still contribute at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ryanpring
