WILMINGTON — Ronald Francis “Ron” Mowry, 76, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024 at his home in Wilmington, N.C.
He was born on November 26, 1947, in Washington, D.C.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth and Walter Hoyle and nephews Stephen and Michael Hoyle.
Ron is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Sandra “Sandie,” and their daughters Elizabeth “Liz” King and husband Jake of Sanford, and Anna Carrick and husband Casey of Raleigh. The loves of his life were his four grandchildren, Micah, Merritt, Parks and Sutton, who affectionately called him “Popi.” He was also survived by his three brothers, Bill Hoyle (Pam), Neil Hoyle (Lisa), and Jimmy Hoyle (Vicki) and their children and grandchildren.
Ron was an amazing all-around athlete, but he loved baseball the most. In his glory days, friends said he was the best baseball player in New Bern, where he played on many Little League Teams. His life-long friend, David Hall, recalled that he threw such a fast pitch, no one ever wanted to be the catcher just in case a wild one was thrown. He went on to play baseball at East Carolina University. After college, Ron served in the Army from 1969-1973. His love for the mountains was ignited during his time in Boone, when he attended Appalachian State University and graduated with his master’s degree. For the majority of his career, he worked as an investment counselor at BB&T.
His bravery and resilience were incredible, as he fought Parkinson’s disease for 13+ years and more recently, heart disease. Despite the struggles he faced medically, he never lost his sense of humor. If you knew him, you’re sure to remember his laugh, a laugh that would resonate through the room. His beautiful smile lit up his entire face, and somehow made him even more handsome than he already was. Ron loved spending time at Wrightsville Beach, whether he was watching his grandkids play in the sand or spending time under the umbrella with his special friends, Mike and Anita Martin. He never let a day pass without showing or telling the people he loved what they meant to him. He made everyone feel special by remembering details about their lives and always showed a genuine interest in others.
Ron’s kindness and compassion for others was evident in every aspect of his life. He loved hard and extended that love to others readily and without question. He was a selfless man of God who was the definition of a good and faithful servant. His daughters, and we’re sure many others, refer to him as their “hero” – a title he very much deserved.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, September 15, 2024, at Andrews Valley Chapel, 4108 South College Road, Wilmington, NC 28412, with Mr. Mike Martin officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ron’s memory by mail to: Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 or online at: lifecare.org
