Ronald N. Ames

Ronald N. Ames, age 81, passed away February 5, 2026, at Warner Center for Caring (Hospice) located in, Fernandina Beach, Florida. Ron was born April 15, 1944 in London, Ohio, a son of Edwina Ames.
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
He served his country in the United States Army for 23 years. Among his many medals he received, was the Bronze Star medal with a V device for Valor. He served three tours in Vietnam during the Vietnam War and was a recipient of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry at a very young age. He was what was known as a Tunnel Rat. Later, he became an advisor.
Ron achieved the rank of Master Sergeant upon retiring from the Army. He was working at the United States Pentagon during the attacks on September 11, 2001. Prior to that, he worked at DoD (Department of Defense), as War Planner and often briefed General Jack Keane. Ron commented how General Keane called him youngster. Ron said, "Sir, I believe we're close to the same age." Ron later went to work for the Department of Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), spearheading the Agency's Contingency Operations Program and Plan which involve military operations in response to natural disasters or terrorism. During his Civil Service career, he served several organizations to include the Headquarter Departments of the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. He also served as a DoD point of contact for presidential travels. For his achievements during a nine month operation for the security and resettlement of 4,100 Kosovo refugees, he was awarded and received the Civilian Emeritus Service Award.
Ron achieved his Masters Degree during his army career in business administration at Columbia University and became an adjunct professor.
He enjoyed cooking, especially grilling on his green egg, and entertaining family and friends. Ron was always there to encourage his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Therese Ames of Fernandina Beach, Florida. He's also survived by two sons, Dirk (Carroll) Ames of Ooltewah, Tennessee and Jason Ames of Savannah, GA. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Nathaniel (Sheila) Wright of Fredericksburg, Virginia, daughter-in-law, Mollie Graybeal and son-in-law, Brandon Steldt, of Fairview, North Carolina. His grandchildren are Clare Ames Crist, Daniel and Dylan Dean, Wyatt Wright, Savannah Wright, Mason Wright and, one great-grandson, Henry Ames Crist.
Ron dearly loved having his family around during the holidays as family gatherings were the utmost of importance. He will be greatly missed.
Ron has fought the good fight; He has finished the race and kept his faith. Now, the Crown of Righteousness is in store for him, which the Lord and the Righteous Judge will award him on Judgment Day, and not only to Ron, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Ronald will be buried at Arlington Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia with a later date to be announced.
Donations may be made in his memory to Nassau County Humane Society.