of Conway, AR
May 15, 1941 - April 1, 2024
Ronald Linn Spradlin, age 82, a resident of Conway, Arkansas passed away on April 1st, 2024 surrounded by his wife and family. He led a remarkable life.
Ron was born on May 15th, 1941 in Pearson, Arkansas to Lescley and Josie Spradlin. He grew up in Mount Vernon, Arkansas where he went to Mount Vernon Schools through 11th grade and graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1959. He attended college at Brigham Young University and University of Central Arkansas.
Ron was introduced to Patricia Lynn Willbanks of Conway by Pat's grandmother, Sallie Mobbs Dial, at age 8. They met again, unexpectedly, when Pat was an embarrassed 19-year-old in curlers. They were married on August 28, 1962. Their love story blossomed, resulting in a beautiful family. Ron and Pat were blessed with six children: Malinda, Shelly, Randy, Lorrie, Kevin and Danny. In retirement, Ron and Pat were called to a two-year Service Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints helping with Addiction and Recovery Support.
Ron's professional journey began as a salesman for various companies. He was a purchasing agent in Mobile Home Manufacturing where he developed his negotiating skills. Ron retired from Keathley Patterson Electric after over 30 years of service where he excelled as a purchasing manager. Ron's dedication and expertise left an indelible mark on the company.
Ron embraced his passion for gardening. He reveled in nurturing life, just as he had nurtured his family. His legacy extended to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who adore him.
Ron has a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and served in many capacities including as Bishop of the local Conway Ward. He also served his community as a member of Toastmasters International, President of the Lion's Club and President of the Purchasing Management Association of Arkansas.
Ron grew up in humble beginnings as a sharecropper's son. He is a published poet, award-winning gardener, keeper of all things good and sentimental, storyteller, jokester and magician. He loved playing the harmonica and when that became difficult, taught himself to play the dulcimer. He is the most genuine, honest and loving husband, father and grandfather. He could make friends with anyone he met, leaving them with positive praise. He strove for perfection and self-improvement daily.
Ron was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lescley and Josie Spradlin and his brother, Donald Spradlin. Their memories will forever echo in our hearts.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Patricia Spradlin; their six children, Malinda Smith (Michael), Shelly Duke (Sean), Randy Spradlin, Lorrie Ozley (Ray), Kevin Spradlin (Carli), Danny Spradlin (Jaci); 20 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren who cherish his memory. He also leaves behind brothers, Bob and Harold Spradlin, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
Let us honor his spirit by continuing the good work he believes in.
''What I will be someday, I am now becoming. ''
Copy and paste the following link into your browser to view a video of our special memories https://youtu.be/5f8IVbWvbak
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14 Condolence(s)
Charlotte Dole
Thursday, June 13, 2024
My condolences to the family in your loss. I am not 100% positive, but pretty sure Ronald and my dad, Arlis Baker were cousins. It seems that after we lost dad, I had called a phone number that left a message on my mom's phone and it was Ronald. I could be wrong on this. Again please accept my condolences.
Williams family
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Rest in peace and hug my mama Burnell for me whenever you see her in heaven. I used to go to church with Josie long ago. I'm praying for God to be there for y'all and give you strength. God bless
Jeremy Autumn Reaves
Friday, April 5, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers to you and you’re family.
Joe and Angela Davidson
Friday, April 5, 2024
Pat and family,
So sorry to hear about Ron. He was a great man and touched many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Coy & Estelline Salts
Friday, April 5, 2024
So sorry to hear of brother Ron’s passing. We loved him so much he was a very special man Ron had a great spirit and loved the Lord and the church. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Michael E. And Lois J. Long
Thursday, April 4, 2024
I will miss my childhood mentor. He helped me to become what I am today. He taught me honesty, morality, and much more. He was the inspiration that inspired my favorite scripture to be Mosiah 2:17. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in the temporal loss of their loved one. I pray that they may be comforted until they are reunited with him in the spirit world.
Natalie Sleight
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Uncle Ron was a good man, who brought light into any life he touched. He always had a kind word and a listening ear. He truly loved the Savior and his fellow man. He was devoted to his family. Anyone who entered his home was made to feel welcome and safe. He inspires us to try a little more to be kind, to be thoughtful. We love him and he will be missed.
Natalie and Justin Sleight
Alea
Thursday, April 4, 2024
I have nothing but the fondest kindest memories or Uncle Ron. He will truly be missed. I remember coming over for general conference, I remember listening to him tell stories about his past and family history, I remember listening to his poetry. He always had a hug and kind word to give and the world was brighter for him being here.
Georgia Ross
Thursday, April 4, 2024
So sorry on your loss. Praying for your family!
Martha
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Lorrie and family, we are praying for you all, thankful for the love and concern you share with one another. While there's no way to make this time easier, we trust that God will continue to provide comfort and strength. I have enjoyed hearing you describe your dad's successes in growing vegetables, and will be remembering you as we work in the gardens here in upcoming weeks.
George R Mayo
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Ron's and Bob Pilcher's influence brought me to work at Keathley-Patterson. I'll always be grateful for Ron's kindness and encouragement. Prayers and love, Patricia and children, as you adjust to the separation. Praise God it's only temporary!
Waburn Brewer
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Sad to hear of Ron's passing. He was a shinning light in the lives of many. One of my favorite cousins and nicest people I've ever met.
Prayers for comfort for Pat and his family.
Martha Fujita
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Pat, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family for peace and comfort in this sad time.
Vivian
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Pat and family: I was fortunate to add Ron to my list of favorite people several years ago, He was a good source of his own poetry, stories and memories. He even once gave a me a "concert" on his dulcimer while on the phone! Together, you and Ron raised a fine group of children, and your principles are likely continued in raising their own. I remember in the article about your Hackberry Champion Tree that young daughter Lorrie was able to climb the tree but asked for help getting down. He told her, "You have to get up in the tree by yourself, and with no help, get down by yourself. You'll learn that someday." Indeed, a lesson in self-confidence, self-help and independence.
Gerald and I will miss his big smile and congeniality, yet remember what a huge Spradlin family reunion there will be "in the sweet by and by!"
Gerald and Vivian Hogue