Ronald Birdsong

1936 - 2025

Ronald J Birdsong

1936-2025/In Loving Memory

Tucson, AZ-Ronald J. Birdsong, age 88, died in Tucson, AZ on January 24, 2025. He was in hospice care after a fall while suffering from Lewy Body Dementia.

After serving in the Army from 1955 to 1963, Ron attended UCLA for his undergrad and graduate degrees. He then worked for Litton Industries for 34 years where he was well respected as an engineer and later, Director. One of his major accomplishments was his contribution to the design of the Tomahawk Cruise Missile guidance system, still in use today.

After retiring in 1995, he moved to Green Valley, Arizona with his wife Jeanne where he enjoyed golf and later, hiking which became his passion for many years to come. At age 82 he completed hiking the 800+ mile Arizona Trail and considered this to be his proudest accomplishment.

Ron was best known for his willingness to listen and to help others achieve their goals. He was a humble, gentle man, a devout Catholic, and everyone's closest friend.

Ron is survived by his wife Jeanne, his daughter Darlene, his grandchildren Jessica, Steven and Sarah and their children. He is predeceased by his son Kenny, daughter Donna, grandson Jimmy, and his brother Tom. He was very close to Jeanne's children Chris and Monica and considered them part of his family.

It was Ron's wish to donate his body to science and the only thing he asked for was for his remaining ashes to be buried privately in the National Veterans Cemetery in Marana, Arizona. Per his wishes, there will be no public gathering in his honor; instead, he asked that his fellow hikers say a prayer for him when they are up in the mountains.