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.
Oh my, reading his obituary has just brought such sadness and tears to my eyes. When George and I moved into the sub division in 2020, Ron was one of the first neighbors to welcome us and help us feel comfortable. He was such a great guy, had such a zest for life, and just loved everyone especially children and animals. The Estates of Tenbrook Manor will never be the same. It will be sad the day the garage door goes down for good with no more popsicles and adult beverages being served, no dogs treats for his four legged friends, no Cardinal baseball games on the radio, or just chatting with George about Mizzou Football. Rest well Ron you will be so…… missed
What a beautiful tribute. Mr. Ron was like family and it is true- our neighborhood truly will never be the same. Hensley and Hayden aka Hassie and Woody will forever cherish the memories that you gave them. We’re so thankful they got to know, love, and be spoiled by such a special neighbor. ❤️
Butch and I were double cousins. His Dad and my mom were brother and sister. His mom and my Dad were sister and brother.I will always remember that smile on his face
Rip double cousin Butch ❤️
The Neighborhood, will not be the same without seeing the garage door open, and Ron, sitting in there handing out his goodies to those walking by. A man of faith in a heart of gold he will be deeply missed by all.
So sad to hear of his passing. He was always so friendly and loved giving our dogs treats. He will surely be missed.
Ron was always so kind. Always a smile, a wave, and a treat for our dog, Bear. He will be missed more than words can say. Our neighborhood won’t be the same without him. Rest in peace, Ron. We are keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers.
I worked with Ron in the Fifth (Penrose) District in the early ’70s. We were both rookies. He was a good guy who always made the right decisions. I think he was one of the most common sense guys I ever knew. I ran into him frequently in the headquarters lobby when we were both assigned downtown. Never short on words. Just an all-around good guy. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Bill Roach
Rest in peace Ron…. my thoughts and prayers are with the family…
The Brother of my dear friend Sue. What a beautiful tribute, full life of service and socializing- the comments are all touching. Ron left a lasting legacy. Thoughts to you all on Friday as you send him home. – DeLite Bielicke
Ron was a neighbor to my mother and father. I didn’t know Ron very long but what I learned about him was that he was a social butterfly and he loved his neighbors and neighborhood. Loved his hockey and all them puppy dogs. I will miss his kindness