WHS student Ryan Shread remembered on first anniversary of his death

One year after Waltham High School student Ryan Shread passed away, members of the Waltham community remember the young man who left a lasting impact on friends, classmates, teammates and family.

Shread was 17 years old and a junior at Waltham High School when he died. He was known by many as a dedicated football player, a supportive friend and someone who brought energy and kindness to those around him. His passing on March 8, 2025, deeply affected the Waltham community, particularly students and members of the Waltham High School football program.

In the days following his death, classmates, friends and community members gathered to honor Shread’s memory, holding vigils and placing flowers and memorials throughout the city. Many gathered at Leary Field, where teammates and friends released white balloons and shared memories of the young athlete.

One year later, Shread’s memory lives on through the people who knew him and the community that rallied to support his family.

In a message shared with the community, Shread’s family said the past year has shown them just how much their son meant to the people around him.

“Ryan is missed every single day, and even more today than a year ago,” the family said. “We continue to be incredibly grateful for the support, kindness and love the Waltham community has shown our family. It means more to us than words can express.”