Eddie Levert’s Heartbreaking Loss: Daughter Ryan’s Death at 22

Legendary O’Jays frontman Eddie Levert has endured unimaginable grief, losing three of his children over the years. His youngest daughter, Ryan Michelle Levert, passed away at just 22 in 2025 due to complications from lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease.

This tragedy marks another devastating chapter for Levert, whose soulful voice defined R&B with hits like *Love Train*. Behind the music, however, lies a personal story of profound loss.

Ryan, born in 2003, was Eddie’s only daughter and a beacon of joy in the Levert family. Known for her bright spirit, she pursued creative arts, including photography and writing, while occasionally showcasing a soulful singing voice reminiscent of her father’s.

Despite her family’s musical legacy, Ryan aimed to carve her own path, with ambitions in communications and advocacy for chronic illness awareness. She volunteered with youth programs, inspiring others with her warmth and resilience. Yet, beneath her positivity, Ryan quietly battled lupus since her teens—a condition causing fatigue, pain, and unpredictable flare-ups.

Eddie, having already lost sons Gerald in 2006 at 40 and Shawn in 2008 at 39, faced haunting déjà vu watching Ryan’s struggle. He constantly affirmed her worth, ensuring she felt loved despite her illness.

In early 2025, Ryan appeared hopeful, planning a lupus awareness campaign. Tragically, a severe flare-up led to hospitalization in March, and despite family support, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, including Eddie and cousin Carlysia Levert.

The news spread through a heartfelt Instagram post by Carlysia, urging support for the grieving family. Lupus, often misunderstood, can escalate rapidly with complications like kidney failure or infections, as it did for Ryan. Her death reignited focus on the disease’s impact, especially in underserved communities.

Eddie, no stranger to grief, drew strength from faith, often citing the biblical story of Job—who endured immense loss yet persevered—as a source of comfort. “I lost two sons and now my daughter. It’s not trivial, but I was left something,” he once reflected, emphasizing resilience.

In past interviews, Eddie admitted to raw emotional moments, crying over his losses, yet he found solace in family and music. The Levert legacy, carried by Gerald and Shawn’s R&B contributions and Eddie’s ongoing career, remains a healing force.

Younger family members, like Carlysia and LaMicah Levert, continue sharing their story through platforms like *The Levert Opinion*, where Ryan was a vibrant presence. Her passing has sparked vital conversations about chronic illness, amplifying the family’s openness about grief to offer solidarity to others.

Eddie’s journey through losing three children—Gerald, Shawn, and Ryan—underscores a rare resilience. Ryan’s brief life reminds us to cherish every moment and extend compassion to those facing silent battles. The Levert family’s story is one of tragedy, love, and enduring hope, proving that even in the darkest times, music and unity can foster healing.