Obituary published on Legacy.com by Pinkel Funeral Home on Oct. 5, 2025.
Veronica "Ronni" Little, 80, of Fairfield, Connecticut, formally of Sussex, passed away surrounded by love on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, just 18 days after celebrating her 80th birthday. Born on September 6, 1945, to Clifford and Virginia VanEtten, Ronni grew up with a strong sense of family and deep compassion for others. She graduated Sussex High School, class of 1963, and the Countee Academy of Hair Design. She is predeceased by her parents; her one true love, John Little and her four legged children that were treated like royalty, Barron, Sugar Plum, Pookie, Mookie, Jenny, Brandy and her beloved birds, Gracie and Conrad. She is survived by her brother, Roy VanEtten, her sister, Virginia Titman, her daughter, Ronni Love and son-in-law Jeff Love of Fairfield, CT; her son, Richard Little of Lexington, KY and his significant other Leigh Anne Ferreri of Louisville, KY; and her beloved grandchildren, Maggie, Gracie, Johnathan, Ryan, Gigi, and Jack; and many nieces, nephews and cherished friends. Ronni dedicated her life to caring for others. A beautician by trade and a friend by heart, she owned and operated her salon, Ronni's Golden Touch located in Lake Hopatcong, for 54 years. More than a business, it was a place where bonds were built, laughter was shared, and friendships grew. Even after retiring, she continued her passion by bringing beauty and comfort to those unable to leave their homes, including her cherished visits to local nuns. She loved spending her nights with Joan and Gail playing dominos. Known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit, Ronni had a gift for making everyone feel cared for. She was also an avid collector, with a special joy for beanie babies, Precious Moments, Longaberger baskets, and her treasured Annalee decorations that brought charm and delight to every season. Though life brought its share of challenges, Ronni faced each one with grace, resilience, and a giving heart. She will be remembered not only for her talent and hard work, but for her deep love of family, friends, animals, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth. The stories of the good ole days were fresh on her mind, during her last days as we looked through photo albums remembering the days spent with her dear life-long friends, Joan and Lynne and many others. Her trips with the seniors, visits to Virginia, shopping with her sister and so many special times with friends and family brought her comfort. The music was playing hits from her favorite decades. She was surrounded by an unconditional love of old and new faces and was well aware of her impact on all of those around her. A celebration of Ronni's life will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Pinkel Funeral Home, 31 Bank Street (Route 23),
Sussex, New Jersey, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. A visitation time will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a 1p.m. service immediately following the visitation at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations in Ronni's memory to
ALS United. There is no cure for ALS, and Ronni battled it with every ounce of her soul until her very last breath. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.pinkelfuneralhome.com