Ronald Kenneth Preacher

Born in California, Ron spent his early years living with his grandmother before moving east, eventually graduating from Bay County High School in Panama City, Florida. A man of many talents and a true servant's heart, Ron packed several lifetimes of adventure into his 70 years. He proudly served his country as a US Navy Corpsman (1974–1977), working as a field medic at Gitmo, Camp Lejeune, Norfolk, and Great Lakes. His passion for helping others continued through his work as an EMT and Paramedic in the 1980s. Later, he channeled his charismatic personality into car sales, founded Ron Preacher’s Family Martial Arts, and served as Chaplain for the American Legion in Titusville. Ron was a salesman and a storyteller through and through—traits that mostly served him well his whole life! In his final years, he found immense joy in serving others as a notary, cook, voluntary chaplain, and Tai Chi teacher for the disabled and elderly.

Ron was a father to four beautiful and charming children: Rachel, Matthew, Elisabeth, and Susannah. Childhood memories with their dad were marked by endless bike rides, fishing trips, camping, zoo visits, breakfasts at Shoney’s, suppers at Ryan’s, rescuing animals, general mischief-making, and perhaps one too many trips to the jockey lot.

Through his four children, Ron was gifted eight precious grandchildren: RJ, Annie, Adam, Leland, Judah, Sofia, Joseph, and Asher. Affectionately known as “Grandpa Yawn,” he loved to tell them stories, take them on adventures to the fair, lake, and park, go on spontaneous corn dog runs, and sing to them—with "Put the Lime in the Coconut" being an absolute crowd favorite. One of his grandsons, Asher Kenneth, proudly carries his name as a lasting reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Ron never met a stranger he didn’t try to befriend. He had a deep love for the great outdoors, motorcycles, and all animals, both domestic and exotic. It was entirely normal to find a chinchilla sharing a house with a cat, a dog, or a snake. His sweet cat, Stevie, was right by his side in his final moments. Ron also expressed his love through food; he tried to feed everyone he met and made the absolute best “cathead” biscuits.

Above all, Ron was loved by God. He was saved by Grace some 40 years ago and though his life took various twists, turns, and held some grand adventures, the Lord was faithful to never leave him or forsake him. In his last days-especially, he praised the Lord for His goodness and faithfulness (Psalms 126:3). Ron’s faith has been made to sight and is now in the presence of his loving Savior.

The Preacher family would like to thank everyone who stood beside Ron, prayed over him, and loved him throughout his life. A very special thank you goes to his dear nurse, Ingrid, for the extraordinary love, care, and support she provided to Ron during his final years, months, days, and minutes.

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”

A Memorial Service will be held at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel, 503 N. Lake Dr, Lexington, South Carolina 29072, on July 18, 2026, at 10:00 am, with visitation to follow.