Ronald Jefferis Rockwell

Ronald J. Rockwell -- father, grandpa, veteran, lover of cars, antique collector, and good friend--joins his sister Carol, parents Fred and Lucille, Jesus and the angels after a brief fight with cancer. He recently celebrated his 85th birthday. Born in Dayton, Ohio, Ron grew up in nearby West Alexandria, Ohio until the US Army drafted him in 1966 and sent him to Tacoma, Washington for a 2-yr stint that included a year in Vietnam.

Ron is survived by his sons Paul (Mara) and Dave (Jenny Thomas); 6 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren; former wife and long-time friend Gwen Sailer (David); sister-in-law Carolyn Lowry (Terry Tankersley); nieces Beth Bassler (John), Jodi Stacy (Greg), and Kristin Ehler (Tom), cousin Derry Jefferis; and so many friends who continued to love, laugh, sing, and pray with him until his last breath.

Ron spent much of his life supporting social justice issues. He led his church in providing monthly hearty soup lunches to Nativity House for many years. He continued to display his deep faith by using his presence to teach so many how to include and advocate for all, especially LGBTQIA folks. All are children of God, holy and beloved.

Ron saw life always from the perspective of a cup half full, often joking and laughing with his many friends even when experiencing life’s difficulties. When faced with news that he would die soon, he quickly comforted those around him, “I’m not afraid of dying; I’m actually more afraid of living these days.”

Celebration of Life Saturday September 26 at 1p at Bethany Presbyterian Church, Tacoma, Washington. All are welcome.

Inurnment will be at Tahoma National Cemetery, Kent, Washington.