Ronald Lee Dezern, 70, of Hampton, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on January 24, 2026.

Born on May 29, 1955, Ron was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life centered around his love for family, church, and country. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, amateur ham radio, gun collecting, and spending time with both his family and church family. A gifted singer, Ron loved singing both solo and in his church choir. In his later years, when he was no longer able to enjoy many of his hobbies, he found comfort watching YouTube videos and television programs related to his interests, as well as British television.

Ron was a graduate of Kecoughtan High School and earned an Associate's Degree from Thomas Nelson Community College. He also attended Old Dominion University while working toward his bachelor's degree.

An ordained minister, Ron served faithfully as a church deacon and was a member of The Gideons. He greatly enjoyed studying theology and preparing for pastoral ministry in his spare time.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1976 to 1980, where he worked in Communications, Navigation, and Electronic Countermeasures (COMM, NAV, ECM) on F-111 fighter jets.

Known for his kindness, strong family values, and sense of humor, Ron was a steady and loving presence to all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Jerry Dezern, and his brother, Gene Dezern.

He is survived by his loving wife, Shareen "Sherrie" Dezern; his children, Jennifer (Jenny) Dezern, Valerie Dezern, and David Dezern; and his grandchildren, Nicholas (Nick) Major, Darren Major, Jenna Major, Daniel Stevens Jr., Avery Stevens, Connor, Holly, and Sam.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on February 3, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Pine Chapel Baptist Church with interment to follow.

All who knew him loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.