Ron Dry

Ronnie “Ron” Eugene Dry, 69, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Ron was born to Sandy and Lillian Dry in Ridgecrest NC. Above all else, he was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith shaped every part of his life and was reflected in the way he loved others, served his community, and cared for his family. Ron faithfully sought to be the hands and feet of Jesus. 

Throughout his life, Ron faithfully served others as a farmer, mail carrier, and pastor. No matter where life called him, he approached each role with humility, compassion, and a servant’s heart. Ron was known for greeting everyone with a smile and always having time for one more conversation.

Beyond his work, Ron generously gave his time to coaching and mentoring young athletes on the softball field. He invested in countless young lives, encouraging them not only to become better players but better people. He hoped every young person he coached would know they were valued and loved, and he never missed an opportunity to share the faith that guided his own life. His influence reached far beyond the game.

Ron never met a stranger. He greeted everyone with a warm smile, always had time to stop and talk, and had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. Whether you met him for the first time or had known him for years, Ron had a way of making you feel like an old friend. His kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

While Ron faithfully served his community, his greatest joy was his family. Of all the roles he held throughout his life, his favorite titles were “Papa” to his grandchildren, “Dad” to his children, and devoted husband to his beloved wife, Cindy. Those were the roles he treasured most, and the love he had for his family was evident in everything he did. Above all, Ron prayed that his family would know and follow the Lord. The legacy he leaves behind is one of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to those he cherished most.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Dry; his children, Mandy Efird (Levi), Travis Dry (Michele), and Jill Dry (Jeremy White); his cherished grandchildren, Kaylyn, Kaden, Bryson, Josiah, Jordyn, Caroline, Brynlee, and Jaycee; extended family, Diana Dry, Duston Dry, and Cynthia Swaringen; and his beloved pet, Simba.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sandy and Lillian Dry; his brother, Daniel Dry; and his sister, Diane Swaringen.

The family will receive friends during visitation on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Pine Grove Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial donations in Ron’s honor to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or Pine Grove Methodist Church.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Emily Bishop and the staff of Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Ron and his family during the final days. 

Though Ron’s earthly journey has ended, his greatest victory was won long ago through his faith in Jesus Christ. We find peace in knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and has been welcomed into the presence of his Savior. His love, unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and example will continue to inspire all who knew him until the day they meet him again.

2 Timothy 4:7–8

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day…”

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