Gartin

Ronald "Ron" Gene Gartin, age 82, and his loving wife of 61 years, Sandra "Sandy" Messer Gartin, age 78, both went to their Lord and Savior on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, only seventeen hours and 37 minutes apart.

Both were born and raised in West Virginia. Ronald's parents were Silas Filmore Gartin and Carrie Browning Gartin. He was also preceded in death by siblings Hettie Merle, Mescal, Ray, Okey, Ralph, Odessa and Maxine. He is survived by siblings Leonard Gartin (Joanne) and Audrey Blaine (Lee). Sandy's parents were Romie Messer and Stella Mae Adkins Messer. She is survived by her brother Dan Messer.

Both are survived by daughters Kim Gartin Starr and husband Gary, Connie Gartin; grandchildren Matt Starr and wife Amanda, Jonathan Starr and two great-grandchildren Kinsley and Faith.

Ron and Sandy raised a loving Christian family and were members of Antioch Christian Church in Bear Creek, NC. Ron taught Sunday School and enjoyed raising a beautiful vegetable garden every year. He retired after 37 years at PacFab/Pentair. Sandy was a homemaker who cooked delicious meals and did needle crafts. Both loved their family and church family and will be missed by everyone who knew and loved them.

A funeral service for Ron and Sandy will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Antioch Christian Church, 246 Antioch Christian Church Road, Bear Creek, NC 27207 with Pastor Jimmy Talton officiating. Burials will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends following the services in the church fellowship hall.