Goldsboro, N.C. – Ronald Edward Close, 80, gently slipped into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 23, 2019, at Johnston UNC Healthcare in Smithfield surrounded by his wife and granddaughter.
Ron was born on December 24, 1938 in Cambridge City, Indiana and was the son of the late Perry Edward Close and Maxine Hutchinson Close. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 – 1967. Ron retired as a manufacturing tech with Caterpillar and had also managed several factories for Dana Corporation. Ron led a life of dedication to his family and friends. He deeply loved and took great pride in his wife, children, grandchildren and his dog, Emmi-Lou. Ron always found joy in simple pleasures with family and friends. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, Duke and the University of Indiana basketball, and watching sunsets at the beach with his wife. Ron exemplified God’s love by serving others. He attended Faith Free Will Baptist Church. Ron will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Friends and loved ones will be received by the family on Thursday, February 28, 2019 from 5:30 – 6:45 p.m. at Faith Free Will Baptist Church followed by a service to celebrate Ron’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Walter Sloan and son-in-law, Rev. Terry Smith officiating.
Ron is survived by his loving wife, Donna Close; daughters, Ann Close of Cary; Carole Daley and husband, Patrick of Cary; Tammy Smith and husband, Terry of Greensboro; and Dana Craddock and husband, Page of Greensboro; grandchildren, Jennifer Mosser and husband, Dave; Patrick Daley Jr., Carter Daley, TJ Smith, Taylor Smith, Caeleb Smith and Krista Smith; sisters, Donna Jean Duff and husband, Calvin of New Castle, IN and Barbara Widau and husband, Paul of Centerville, IN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Ron’s memory to Missions at Faith Free Will Baptist Church, 1200 W. Grantham Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.