Ronald Ervine Appleby

Ronald “Ron” Ervine Appleby, 77, of San Jose, California, passed away peacefully at his home on August 30, 2025. A lifelong resident of San Jose, Ron’s life was filled with steadfast devotion to his family, faithful dedication to his church, a deep commitment to his community, and a creative passion for the arts.

Born on November 23, 1947, in San Jose to Clyde and Maxine Appleby, Ron graduated from James Lick High School in 1965. He earned his degree in social science from San Jose State University in 1971 and went on to receive his teaching credential.

Ron married Deborah “Debbie” Brewer in 1974, and together they raised three children before her passing in 1990 after two courageous battles with cancer. In 2005, Ron married Nancy Lynn (Andrade) Lyons, with whom he shared a loving partnership until his passing.

Ron’s professional life reflected his commitment to hard work and education. He worked for 34 years with Lucky Stores before embarking on a second career teaching high school social sciences for 13 years. He retired in 2014, after being both a mentor and inspiration to his students.

A Berryessa resident since 1975, Ron was an active member of the East Valley Artists from 2014 until recent years. In 2018, he was honored as Citizen of the Year by the Berryessa Citizens Advisory Council for his active involvement in beautifying his community.

A self-trained artist specializing in collage, Ron embraced bold colors, unusual patterns, and unconventional subject matter. He often used materials ranging from magazines and advertisements to cereal coupons and postage stamps. Ron preferred his work to spark thought, humor, or even controversy, rather than simply being “nice” or “pretty.” His creativity reflected a mind unafraid to challenge norms and a heart eager to share beauty in unexpected ways.

Ron was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church of Milpitas (now Christ Community Church) since 1981, where he formed lasting friendships and deepened his faith.

Ron is survived by his wife, Nancy Lynn; his children, Craig Appleby, Bryan Appleby (Judy), and Christine Torres (Joe); and his stepchildren, Alissa Grossenbacher (Steve) and Todd Lyons (Jessica).

He was the proud grandfather of Angelica Costa (Nelson), Alyssa and Gabriel “Jojo” Torres; Katelyn, Jillian, and Benjamin Appleby; Austin and Trenton Grossenbacher; Blake and Russell Lyons, and Mykynzy “Kenzie” Collins; and the proud great-grandfather of Ayden Costa.

He is also survived by his brother, Fred Appleby, and his sister, Lori Arney (Tim).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Maxine Appleby; his first wife, Debbie Appleby; and sisters Terri Appleby and Kathy Appleby.

A service celebrating Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Chapel of the Oaks, Oak Hill Memorial Park & Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Operation Smile (OperationSmile.org), Water for Good (waterforgood.org), or Heifer International (heifer.org).