Colby Ryan’s life has changed dramatically since the tragic events involving his mother, Lori Vallow Daybell, who was found guilty of murdering his younger siblings in what has been dubbed the "doomsday murders." After a lengthy trial lasting seven weeks, Lori was convicted in May 2023 for the deaths of her two children, Joshua "J.J." Vallow and Tylee Ryan, as well as conspiring to kill her husband Chad Daybell’s first wife, Tammy Daybell.
Lori married Chad just weeks after Tammy’s death and shortly before a missing persons case was opened for J.J. and Tylee. Both Lori and Chad faced separate trials, with Lori receiving a life sentence without the possibility of parole, while Chad was sentenced to death for his role in the murders.
Now, five years after the tragic events, Colby, Lori’s only surviving son, continues to deal with the emotional fallout. In a recent interview with Dateline, he shared how his perspective on life has shifted after seeing his mother commit such horrific acts. Colby expressed that he had always been an optimistic person but feels that witnessing his mother’s actions has changed how he perceives others.
Colby revealed the deep sense of loss he experiences, describing the treatment of his sister Tylee as something that "isn’t human." His journey of healing has included reflecting on his relationship with his mother, which was once caring but became strained as her behavior changed following her relationship with Chad Daybell.
Lori’s early years as a parent were marked by her devotion to her children, but Colby noted a distinct change in her demeanor and priorities when Chad entered her life. He recounts how their relationship deteriorated, describing instances of abuse he faced from his stepfather, Joe Ryan, which led to a complicated family dynamic.
During the trial, Colby provided powerful testimony about the changes he observed in his mother. He conveyed feelings of betrayal and grief, and even confronted her on a phone call from jail. In the call, he expressed his heartbreak and disbelief over what happened to his siblings, struggling to grasp the reality of the situation.
Colby has channeled his experience into a book titled The God Over Odds, where he shares how faith has helped him navigate trauma and loss. He also frequently discusses his family’s story on his YouTube channel, seeking to honor the memories of his siblings while moving forward in his life.
Currently, he and his wife, Kelsee, are focused on creating a loving environment for their daughter Ryley, ensuring she knows her late family members through pictures and memories. Colby is dedicated to keeping his siblings’ legacy alive and is committed to not letting his mother’s actions define their family’s story.
As they expand their family, Colby remains determined to find hope and healing amidst the pain of his past, aiming to create a future that honors his siblings and the love they shared.
