Ron Rakey of Anderson passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday, December 20, 2025. Born in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri, Ron lived a fun yet humble childhood. His big brother, Russell, enabled all sorts of adventures that would have landed their parents in front of social services if done today. His sisters, Gwen, Barb, and Bobbie had ringside seats to many of these. Among our favorites to hear, one involved riding his soap box derby car out onto the new interstate near their house. In an attempt to squeak-out just a little more distance, Ron opted to use the downhill slope of the highway on-ramp to his advantage. His neighborhood record breaking attempt was halted when a Missouri State Trooper intervened, bringing this particular adventure to an abrupt end.

Ron married the love of his life, Linda in 1970 when the two met at the University of Missouri. They spent the next 55 years of their life doing as much as anyone could ask and usually because Linda had picked up a new hobby. Ron spent most of his time supporting his family's activities and hobbies but he never lost his sense of adventure. He enjoyed riding dirt bikes, watching the sunrise over Lake Jocassee, or floating down a river. He taught all of us how lucky we were to have so much to explore here in the upstate. Ron and Linda had two boys, Clayton of Williamston and Justin (Chris) of Central, SC. Clayton gave them the best gift of all, though, which was two wonderful grandchildren that Ron was immensely proud of – Clayton Jr. "LC" and Harris, both of Williamston.

Ron never met a stranger. He befriended all that he met and liked to help others. His care for everyone he encountered will be remembered by all who met him, including his favorite waitresses at his go-to breakfast place. They will surely miss his generous tips.

At his request, there will not be a service. The family will enjoy one more ride to his favorite place, though this time probably not on dirtbikes. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to do something to help someone else and to keep doing it, again and again until your time comes.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM.