JUNE 30, 1934 – MARCH 31, 2020
Ronald James Hubbard was born in Queens, New York on June 30, 1934 to William Henry Hubbard Sr. and Marie Wantaugh Akins Hubbard.
He was the oldest son in line with six siblings; two older sisters Mercedes and Dolores, a younger sister Beryl and three younger brothers Alfred, Wallace and William (Bill). Ronald affectionately called “Ron” by friends and “Uncle Ronald” by family and “Chief” by those who came to learn of his military career knew he was a Navy Man through and through.
Ronald entered the United States Navy in 1952 and served his country for twenty years, retiring in December 1972.
Ronald earned the rank of Chief Petty Officer and was very proud of his naval career where he served with distinction. During his tours of duty, he received Good Conduct Medals (4); a Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V”; a Meritorious Unit Commendation; a Combat Action Ribbon; and a Vietnam Gallantry Cross.
Ronald shared many stories with whomever would listen about his time in the Navy. He traveled the world by sea sharing many life changing experiences alongside his shipmates. Ronald grasped the joy and endured the heartache while serving during the Vietnam War. He was a military man who honored his fellow veterans whenever and however he could. He wore his Navy memorabilia proudly everyday wherever he went.
Upon retirement from the United States Navy, Ronald began a second career with J.W. Marriott as a Banquet Manager. Ron spent the next 20 years working first at the Marriott in Philadelphia and then Crystal City, Virginia where he retired in the early 1980’s.
After retiring from his second act, Ronald lived in Woodbridge, Virginia for many years until 2004 when he followed his older sister Dolores and younger brother Bill in relocating to Surprise, Arizona.
Ronald was predeceased by his parents William and Marie Hubbard, his sister Mercedes Browne, brothers Wallace and William (Bill) Hubbard.
He leaves behind his sisters Dolores Graham and Beryl Ward, brother Alfred Hubbard, sister-in-law Joanne Hubbard, a host of nephews, nieces and friends.
We, his family will miss his beautiful smile and his thoughtful demeanor. Ronald was truly one of a kind!!
Final Resting Place will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia. Date TBD
“A FOND FAIRWELL DEAR SAILOR”
TIME TO COME HOME DEAR BROTHER
YOUR TOUR OF DUTY THROUGH
YOU’VE GIVEN AS MUCH AS ANYONE
COULD BE EXPECTED TO
JUST A FEW STEPS FURTHER
THE SMOKE WILL START TO CLEAR
YOU HAVE NO NEED TO FEAR
YOU HAVE NOT FAILED YOUR
BROTHERS AND SISTERS
YOU CLEARLY GAVE IT ALL
SO TAKE YOUR PLACE OF HONOR
AMONG THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE
AND KNOW YOU WILL BE REMEMBERED
FOR NOW AND EVERMORE
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