Ronald Dee Burns

Ronald Dee Burns, 82, of Sherwood, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

Ron was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 21, 1942, to Walter and Mildred Burns. After graduating from high school, he joined the Navy and served from 1960-1966, including time in Vietnam. 

Married to Diana Shrable Burns on December 18, 1971, Ron and Diana enjoyed over 52 years of marriage and had two children: Gregory and Steven.

 Ron was an active, longtime member of First Baptist Church of Sherwood where he had ushered, taught Sunday school, and driven the church youth bus cross country to camp. 

After working for many years in the petroleum industry and as a founding owner of Arkansas Testing Services, Ron retired and spent time enjoying his family, including his three grandchildren Elliott, Ryan, Gwendolyn. He could often be found in his yard working or in someone else’s yard lending a helping hand. Ron was always ready for conversation and brought smiles and laughter to all those around him.

He was preceded in death by a beloved grandfather Harry Walter Burns, his parents, one sister Virginia, and four brothers (James, Donald, Kenneth, and Clarence), and his granddaughter Abigail Elizabeth Burns.

Surviving family members include his wife Diana, sons Gregory (Amy) and Steven (Rosa), grandchildren Elliott, Ryan, and Gwendolyn, and a brother Robert. Ron also leaves behind many in laws that he loved dearly along with nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Arkansas Hospice or Arkansas Children’s Hospital. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 20, 2024, at Smith Sherwood Funeral Home (7700 Hwy 107) with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Arkansas Memorial Gardens.