Ronald Scott Owensby, age 79, passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved him. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Dorothy, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage. Together they built a life and a family filled with love, memories, laughter, and countless moments that will be treasured forever. Together, they faced life’s hardest moments side by side. Their love and commitment to one another never wavered, and the life they built together will remain a beautiful example of enduring love and devotion to us all. Ron is also survived by his daughter Renee Counts (Kevin); his grandchildren Mariah, Colin, and Tyvin; his siblings Joann Coyle (Perry), Sue Zona (David), and Brad Owensby (Maryann); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Ronald, and grandson, Justin, whom he greatly missed and is now reunited with.
Ron was a proud Vietnam Veteran, serving honorably in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969. Carrying his sense of duty into civilian life, Ron joined the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department in 1972 where he continued his life of service and protecting others for 34 years. He retired from law enforcement in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and countless stories. To those who worked alongside him, he was more than a police officer – he was a legend.
Ron loved to golf and fish, two things that brought him tremendous joy. Although illness had kept him from doing those things for several years, those who loved him take comfort in knowing that he is free to do them again. The golf course is open, the fish are biting, and Ron is finally back where he belongs.
Ron’s greatest love was his family. They will miss his strength, humor, stories, and larger-than-life presence. He leaves behind a family who will miss him deeply, a neighborhood that will never quite be the same, friends and colleagues who will remember him with admiration.
Ron Owensby was one of a kind. A provider. A friend. A husband. A dad. A legend. And to the people fortunate enough to call him theirs, he was home.
Services: Funeral at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd.) on Friday, August 28, at 10:30 a.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation Thursday, from 4 – 7 p.m.