John Rondal Baucom, best known as Ronnie, was born on September 2, 1947, and was a lifelong resident of Union County, North Carolina. His parents, Marshall and Verona Baucom, instilled in him a strong work ethic and the values of honesty, loyalty, and responsibility. If you were Ronnie's friend, you were a friend for life. He was blessed with a close-knit group of friends who supported one another through every challenge. Ronnie was always ready to lend a helping hand; all anyone had to do was ask.

Drafted during the Vietnam era, Ronnie proudly served in the United States Army with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. During his military service, he learned the true meaning of the phrases "I've got your back" and "No man left behind." These principles stayed with him throughout his life and fostered an unwavering sense of patriotism and pride in his country. He firmly believed that America was the greatest nation on earth, that the American flag should always be respected, and that one should stand silently during the National Anthem.

Seldom seen without a cap honoring the Army, other military branches, or one of the many veterans' organizations to which he belonged, Ronnie proudly represented the military community. His memberships included The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart, among others. A dedicated member of American Legion Keith Moore Post 440 in New Salem, North Carolina, for more than 50 years, Ronnie served proudly as Post Commander for many years and continued his service through leadership roles at the state level.

While serving in Vietnam, Ronnie sustained serious injuries and lost many comrades. As a result of his sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart and made a lifelong commitment to honoring and remembering those who never made it home.

A true outdoorsman, Ronnie found great joy in deer hunting. What started as a seasonal pastime became a year-round passion involving scouting, preparation, and time spent outdoors. His exceptional marksmanship earned him several prize bucks, and his love of nature was a gift he proudly passed on to his family.

Nothing brought Ronnie more happiness than his family. Even during life's most difficult challenges, his face would light up whenever they were near. Never one to seek attention for himself, he seldom missed an opportunity to share stories of family adventures, some humorous, some unforgettable, along with the photos that captured those memories. Ronnie truly believed his family was second to none.

A special thank you is extended to the caregivers whom Ronnie trusted and held close. Their compassionate care allowed him to remain comfortable, enjoy his surroundings, and feel at home. Their kindness was a blessing not only to Ronnie, but also to his entire family.

Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife, Kay Jo; son, Bobby (Jodi) Myers; daughters, Jennifer (Jaime) St. Clair and Katelyn (Hunter) Black; grandsons, Andersen, Parker, Lowery, and Hampton St. Clair, James Myers, Austin Dice, and Wolf Black; granddaughters, Peyton St. Clair and Madison Myers; and two great-granddaughters, Wrenly and McKenna Dice, daughters of Austin and Landria Dice.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:00am at Lakeland Memorial Park, 1901 Lancaster Ave. Monroe, NC 28112.

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Baucom Family.