Ryder Evan Russaw is the youngest child of Grammy-winning singer Faith Evans and her former husband, music executive Todd Russaw. He was born on March 22, 2007, and grew up in a close, creative family with three older siblings. In recent years, Ryder has also been part of his mother’s public work to support autism awareness. This article shares clear details about his life, family, and the quiet impact he has had through his mother’s advocacy.
Personal Information
Fact | Detail |
---|---|
Full name | Ryder Evan Russaw |
Known as | Ryder |
Date of birth | March 22, 2007 |
Age | 18 (as of September 15, 2025) |
Parents | Faith Evans (mother), Todd Russaw (father) |
Siblings | Chyna Tahjere Griffin, Christopher “C.J.” Wallace, Joshua Russaw |
Famous for | Being the youngest son of singer Faith Evans |
Notable part of life | On the autism spectrum |
Advocacy link | Connected to Ryder’s Room, Inc. (autism support) |
Nationality | American |
Birth announcement | Reported in early April 2007 |
Early Life and Family
Ryder was born at a time when Faith Evans was already a respected R&B artist and a devoted mother. She had three older children, Chyna, C.J., and Joshua, before welcoming Ryder in 2007. Faith had been on bed rest earlier that year but delivered a healthy baby boy.
Faith later spoke about how she balances music and motherhood. She often chose family over touring when needed. Profiles about her family highlight that Ryder is the youngest and that the children share strong ties through music and art.
Parents and Siblings

- Mother: Faith Evans – Multi-platinum singer and songwriter who started her career in the 1990s and remains an important voice in R&B.
- Father: Todd Russaw – A music executive and manager who was married to Faith Evans from 1998 until their separation and later divorce. They share two sons, Joshua (1998) and Ryder (2007).
- Siblings:
- Chyna Tahjere Griffin (born 1993), a musician and visual artist.
- Christopher “C.J.” Wallace (born 1996), an actor and entrepreneur.
- Joshua Russaw (born 1998), a producer and performer who sometimes works with C.J.
These family connections help explain why Ryder grew up around studios, stages, and creative projects. Music is part of home life, and his siblings’ careers show that art runs in the family.
Autism and Advocacy
Faith Evans has been open about Ryder being on the autism spectrum. She has used interviews, social posts, and community events to speak about support, services, and respect for people with autism. Several stories describe how she pushed schools and systems to give Ryder proper attention and how she would not accept less than fair treatment.
In one story, Faith discussed challenges with a public school system and explained why she made changes to protect Ryder’s well-being and education. Her message was simple: he should have the same quality of life as any other child and the chances he deserves.
Faith’s advocacy is not only private. She has appeared in media segments and community talks about parenting a child with autism. These moments help spread awareness and encourage other families.
Ryder’s Room, Inc.
To turn words into action, Faith Evans helped launch Ryder’s Room, Inc., an effort aimed at autism awareness and resources. Coverage about her family often mentions this initiative when talking about her children and her community work. It shows that Ryder’s name is linked to something positive that serves other families.
Life Today
Ryder largely lives outside the spotlight, which is common for minors in public families. When his name appears, it is usually in the context of his mother’s advocacy or family celebrations. Media and community coverage during Autism Acceptance Month often include Faith speaking about Ryder and the importance of inclusion.
As the youngest of the four siblings, Ryder benefits from a strong support system. His brothers and sister have their own creative paths, and his mother often praises the unique gifts each child brings to the family. This environment helps Ryder grow at his own pace, with love and structure.

What Ryder’s Story Teaches
- Family first: Faith Evans has a long career, but she has shown that a parent can shape a schedule to meet a child’s needs.
- Speak up: Her public comments about schooling and services show the power of advocacy.
- Community matters: Projects like Ryder’s Room, Inc. give practical help and raise awareness at the same time.
Overall, Ryder’s life reminds us that every child deserves respect, access, and a chance to shine in their own way.
Final Note
Ryder’s story is about family, respect, and inclusion. Faith Evans celebrates her son and stands up for him. By doing that, she also helps many other families learn, speak up, and find support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) Who are Ryder Evan Russaw’s parents?
His mother is singer Faith Evans, and his father is music executive Todd Russaw.
2) When was Ryder born?
He was born on March 22, 2007.
3) How many siblings does Ryder have?
He has three older siblings: Chyna Tahjere Griffin, Christopher “C.J.” Wallace, and Joshua Russaw.
4) Is Ryder on the autism spectrum?
Yes. Faith Evans has spoken publicly about Ryder being on the autism spectrum.
5) What is Ryder’s Room, Inc.?
It is an initiative linked to Faith Evans to support autism awareness and resources in Ryder’s name.
6) What has Faith Evans said about education for Ryder?
She has talked about pushing for fair services and sometimes changing schools to make sure he gets proper support.
7) Does Ryder appear in the media often?
Not often. Mentions usually come with his mother’s advocacy during events like Autism Acceptance Month.
8) What are Ryder’s interests?
His family keeps many personal details private. Public stories focus more on education, support, and inclusion rather than hobbies.
9) Where does Ryder live?
The family does not share his exact location, which is normal for privacy. Public reports focus on Faith’s career and advocacy work, not specific addresses.
10) Why is Ryder important to fans of Faith Evans?
His life has inspired Faith’s work in autism advocacy. Through interviews and community efforts, she uses her platform to help other families too.
Relatable Topics
Who Is Gina Capitani, Theo Von’s Mom? Facts and Life Story
Who Is Charles Ezekiel Mozes? Easy Facts About Cynthia Nixon’s Son