Ronald Flatley

The world became a little quieter and a lot less fun on Sunday, May 23, when Ronald Flatley of Va. Beach died after battling lung cancer. He passed while holding the hand of his wife of 61 years, Betty.

He was the son of William and Grace Flatley of Irish descent and was born on August 10, 1940, in Newark, NJ, the youngest of six children. He attended vocational school in Newark and enlisted in the Navy at age 17. He served our country for ten years. Afterward, he worked at Norfolk Naval Shipyard as a civilian, first as a machinist and then as a nuclear scheduler.

However, Ron did not identify himself through his career; people will remember him by his large personality. Whether at family gatherings or at Virginia Beach Shag Club dances, a crowd always gathered around the table where he and Betty held court. Ron had a very sharp wit, was quick with a clean (or not-so- clean) joke, and was a surprisingly graceful dancer. He was also a captivating storyteller. His friends will remember the twinkle in his eye and his willingness to share a kind word.

Ron was an excellent father. He raised three children Barbara(Stephen), Ronald (Denise), and David(Rhonda). Each of them is successful and happy. He also is survived by eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was admired and respected by all.

Along with his decades-long membership in the Shag Club, Ron engaged in numerous other pursuits. He completed many DIY home improvement projects and enjoyed servicing and repairing his vehicles. He liked taking his family boating and fishing, and in later years he had fun playing with his grandchildren.

“May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sunshine warm upon your face.

May the rains fall upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”

Special thanks to Ann, his hospice nurse. As well as Ida and Chris’ where he spent his final days.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity in memory of Ron. In honor of his spirit, please make someone smile, tell a joke, enjoy a dance.

Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at 1 pm at A.G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk.