Ronald Jerry Becker

Born in Florence, Alabama, Ron grew up in Spokane, Washington, but spent most of his life in Gardendale, Alabama. His life was full of dedication, service, family, faith, and joy.

Ron proudly served his country as a member of the 501st Land Clearing Company. His military service included one tour in Thailand and one tour in Vietnam, where he demonstrated courage and commitment to his fellow soldiers and his mission. Ron joined the US National Guard after returning from Vietnam and was honorably discharged in 1984.

After his time in the military, Ron earned his BS in Education from UAB and found his calling as an educator. He taught auto mechanics at Fultondale High School and later continued his teaching career at Rogers Vocational School (Gardendale HS) when the program transitioned. Through his work, he shared his expertise and passion for auto mechanics with countless students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Ron took select students to the annual Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competition, leading several teams to win the state contest to advance to the national competition in Washington, DC. Ron awoke before the sun each weekday to drive a school bus. Many a student enjoyed early mornings on Mr. Becker’s bus, hearing his “dad jokes” on the way to school. (How do you hide an elephant in a cherry tree? Paint his toenails. Have you ever seen an elephant in a cherry tree? No? Works pretty well, doesn’t it!?!).

Ron was a man who never met a stranger. His warm personality and unique sense of humor brought smiles to everyone he encountered. Whether spontaneously breaking into a chorus of “Jingle Bells,” giving a playful “meep meep” like the Roadrunner, or affectionately calling someone “Ralph,” Ron had a way of making every interaction memorable.

A NASCAR fan, Sundays often found Ron enjoying the thrill of the race after church (really, just falling asleep on the couch to the hum of the engines on TV. If you tried to change the channel, you’d hear: “I’m watching that!”). After retirement, Ron committed to giving back to his community. He cherished volunteering with the local Vietnam Veterans Association chapter, where he continued to serve others with the same dedication he showed throughout his life. He was president of VVA Chapter 416 for 15 years and made many good friends there.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Linda Ratliff Becker; daughters Beth Becker McMeekin (Stan) and Brooke Becker; grandchildren Camryn McMeekin Bodine (Joz), Aiden McMeekin, Quinn McMeekin, and Lillian McMeekin; and an eagerly anticipated great-granddaughter. He was predeceased by his parents Marvin “Beck” Becker and Dorothy “Dot” Johns Becker, as well as his brother, Randy Becker, and sister-in-law, Sharon Belew Becker.

Ron’s legacy is one of kindness, humor, service, and love. Those who knew him will forever remember his infectious laughter and generous spirit. He once said, “The kindness that you do for others, with a smile, will always return to you. That’s my wisdom.”

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests that you donate to the Vietnam Veterans Association of America or The Headstrong Project. Links to these organizations can be found below.