Ronald R. Eason

Born on January 10, 1948, Ronald was the son of the late Catherine Beamon and James Kelly. He was a proud graduate of Central High School in Gates County, North Carolina, Class of 1968.

Following high school, Ronald answered the call to serve his country after being drafted into the United States Army. He served with distinction in the First Cavalry Platoon, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4). Trained at Fort Bragg and stationed in Germany, Ronald courageously served in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged and awarded the Purple Heart, a lasting testament to his bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.

After returning to civilian life, Ronald pursued continued education through various vocational courses, including drafting, architecture, and carpentry. A man of strong work ethic and determination, he held jobs such as self-employment, operating his own newspaper delivery route, working as a cab driver, and running the packer for bag loading at ADM Mills. He enjoyed drawing, coloring, gardening and home improvement projects, skills he proudly applied through his vocational training in carpentry. He also enjoyed acquiring used bicycles and repairing them for less fortunate children in the neighborhood.

Above all else, Ray was a devoted family man who loved his family deeply. In 1974, he met the love of his life, Delinda Nelson Eason, at Elizabeth City State University and they married in 1974. Together they built a life and shared homes in Hobbsville, North Carolina; New Bern, North Carolina; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and ultimately settled in Charlotte, North Carolina.

In addition to his loving wife, Ronald leaves to cherish his memory his two daughters, Shemeka Beatrice Eason (Marrissa) and Shronda Rae Eason (April), and his son, Justin Jarrel Eason. He is also survived by his nephew and bonus son, George Rogers (Kelli).

His legacy also continues through his six beloved grandchildren: ChaRonte’ Eason (William), ChaLynte’ Eason, Curtis Eason, Justice Laney, JazLyn Laney, and Christian Eason; and two great-grandchildren, Rayne Eason-Trimmel and Rayvon Eason-Trimmel.

Ronald is also survived by his siblings: Harry Eason (Joyce), Cynthia Moody (Jeff), Julius Beamon, Hattie Boatwright, Earl Beamon (Theresa), Ed Beamon, and Carl Beamon (Sharon). A host of nieces, nephews, friends and family. He will also be fondly remembered by very special family friends, Zelda and her son, Jamario.

In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by his son, Ronald Ray Eason, Jr, and his sister, Edith Rawls.

Ronald Ray Eason will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.