Ronald Gene Kaylor Sr.

Ronald Gene Kaylor, Sr., age 92, a lifelong resident of Conover died at home on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Ronald was born on Wednesday, September 14, 1932 to the late Kermit Howard Kaylor and Annie Catherine Kaylor.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Frances Parham Kaylor and son in law, Jonathan Jones.

Ronald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He leaves behind a legacy of servant leadership. Ronald attended NC State University and Lenoir Rhyne College. After his military service in the Korean War, he returned to Conover and joined the Conover volunteer fire department where he served for more than 60 years. As the chief and a state certified fire instructor he mentored countless firefighters who continue to serve our community today. He was a dedicated, lifelong member of Concordia Lutheran Church, avid gardener, and outdoorsman. For his dedication he was awarded The Key to the City of Conover and the Long Leaf Pine Award.

Those left to cherish his memory are son, Ronald Kaylor Jr. (Susan); daughter, Deborah Jones; grandchildren, Adam Jones (Alice), Rev. Anne Jones Martin (Max), Jacob Kaylor (Zoe); great grandchildren, Jonathan Martin, Christian Martin, John Kaylor; sister, Miriam Simpson; brother in law, Samuel Parham; sister in law, Callie Watson and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for Ronald will be held at 2pm on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Concordia Lutheran Church officiated by Reverend Michael Geml. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 1pm to 1:45pm. Burial will follow at Conover City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Pl, Memphis, TN 38105.

Condolences may be sent to the Kaylor family at www.drumfh-conover.com

The Kaylor family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Drum Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Conover, NC.