Ronald Shillito

1938 - 2025

Ronald (Ron) Devere Shillito of Chandler, Arizona, went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on October 7, 2025. Ron was born in New Brighton, Pennsylvania. Shortly thereafter, he moved with his family to Tucson, Arizona. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army. He then pursued a Civil Service career with the U.S. Department of Defense working in Fort Huachuca, Germany, Israel, and Alabama, where he retired. He then went on to work for the Arizona National Guard in Phoenix, as Master Planner. After retiring there, he worked on many home projects, creating beautiful landscapes, refurbishing furniture, and woodworking projects. He always approached every task he did with thoughtfulness, expertise and generosity.
In his early years Ron participated in community recreational sports and as a girls' softball coach. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Management, Master's Degree in Public Administration & Management, and also served on the Sierra Vista Planning and Zoning Commission all while raising his close-knit family.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents: father, Devere Curtis Shillito; mother, Rosalie Lucia Stevenson; aunt, Roberta Stevenson; and brother, Terrell (Nancy) Shillito. He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances Shillito; their two children: Rose (Steve) Shillito; Sandra (Mike) Story; two cherished grandchildren, Ryan Story and Megan Story; brothers, Westley (Gail) Shillito, Laurence (Lacey) Shillito; sister, Cynthia Jones; and many nieces and nephews.
Ron was a man of strong principles who instilled in others the importance of honesty and doing what was right. He demonstrated integrity and embraced a strong moral compass in his life, always ready to help others when needed. He was conscientious of the needs and feelings of others and would give of his time to anyone. He was known for his quickness of mind, witty comebacks that were unexpected, very clever, and very funny.
Ron was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be dearly missed.
All are welcome to join the family for interment services on November 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Southern Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, located at 1300 Buffalo Soldier Trail in Sierra Vista, Arizona. A Celebration of Life will follow.
Condolences and tributes can be sent to: coyotes4@msn.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Ron to your favorite charity.