Ron Hayes, 68, passed away on July 11, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas. Born on December 9, 1956, in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, Ron lived a life marked by generosity, adventure, and a deep commitment to those around him.

Ron's early years were spent in Tennessee and California. He attended both Eastridge High School and Branham High School as part of the class of 1974 where he excelled in sports-particularly baseball and football-earning numerous accolades along the way. His athletic talents earned him a baseball scholarship to the University of Hawaii. He later continued his education at San Francisco State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics.

Throughout his life, Ron embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and heart. He had a passion for sales and thrived in roles that allowed him to travel extensively. With his passport always at the ready, he accumulated countless frequent flier miles while building relationships across the land. His professional journey also included managing gyms and working as a stockbroker. In more recent years, he enjoyed driving for Uber and Lyft-a role that allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life.

Ron was known for his remarkable memory-he never forgot a name-and for his unwavering kindness and thoughtfulness. He was deeply considerate of others' feelings and concerns and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His big-hearted nature made him beloved by many; he was truly an all-around good guy whose presence brought warmth wherever he went.

A lifelong athlete, Ron remained committed to fitness throughout his life. Whether working out or encouraging others to stay active, he embodied discipline and vitality. He also had an enduring love for travel-exploring new places brought him great joy.

Ron leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory: his son Ryan Hayes; stepson Ralph Simpson; stepdaughters Rosanne Simpson and Renee Rouse; stepson Robert Forrest; father Jerry Hayes (Linda); sister Jan Gibson (Rich); nephew Justin Steimer (Jill); niece Samantha Forte (Roger); stepbrother Jeff Clark (Sandy); stepsister Diane Smith; stepbrothers Richard King and Ronnie King (Sharon); along with many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his mother Charlotte Clark; stepfather Jack Clark; grandparents Leonard "Burt" Hayes and Nell Hayes; grandparents Hobert Stephens and Dorothy Stephens; stepbrother Jerry Clark; uncle Dan Phillips; uncle Jack Hayes; uncle Sam Stephens; and aunt Norma Ferguson.

Ron's legacy is one of compassion, strength, and connection. He touched many lives through his generosity of spirit and will be remembered with deep affection by all who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday August 2, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 03:00 PM at The Colonnade 264 Catoosa Circle in Ringgold, GA. Lunch provided. Gather to remember and share memories.

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Recent Activity

July 22, 2025

Robert Forrest posted to the memorial.

July 22, 2025

Bob Mulkey posted to the memorial.

July 21, 2025

Blanca Cartagena posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Robert Forrest

July 22, 2025

Tribute to Ron

Ron wasn´t just my stepdad-he was my Dad in every way that mattered.

I still remember the first time I met him. I was just a kid, and right away, I looked up to him. At a time when I didn´t have a strong male role model-aside from my big brother Ralph-Ron stepped in. He was only 29 himself, but even then, he rose to the challenge and became the father figure I didn´t know I was missing.

One of my most vivid memories of Ron was picking him up from the airport in Midland, Texas. It was just a few days before Christmas, and money was tight. We weren´t expecting much that year-but when Ron walked off that plane dressed as Santa Claus, dragging a giant sack of gifts for all of us, I´ll never forget it. No one asked him to do it. He just wanted to give us the kind of Christmas we´d never forget. And he did.

Throughout the years, Ron was always there for me-even in the small ways that didn´t feel small at the time. Whenever I forgot my lunch or lunch money, I could call him, and no matter where he was or what he was doing, he´d drive 15 or 20 miles just to make sure I was taken care of. I didn´t realize it then, but those moments meant everything.

It took me a long time-20 years, in fact-to fully understand what Ron meant to me. But I´m grateful I got the chance to tell him how much he truly mattered to me, and how lucky I felt to have him in my life. When I needed a Dad the most, Ron was there.

Ron-and his entire family-welcomed me and my family with open hearts. He will always be family to me, and I will carry his love and his memory with me for the rest of my life.

Bob Mulkey

July 22, 2025

Prayers to his family and friends. My memory of Ronnie is as of an 8 year old. When he was 9 and I was 8 we played on the Giants in the East Ridge Little League. He was a hard throwing pitcher for a 9 year old, I was his catcher. RIP Ronnie.

Blanca Cartagena

July 21, 2025

I was deeply saddened to hear about Ron´s passing. He was truly a wonderful person with a kind and generous heart.
My thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.