Lovingly written by his family.

Ronald Lee Smithson, 69, of Springfield, Missouri, went to be with Jesus Saturday, July 31, 2021. He was born October 21, 1951 in Durant, OK to Jackson Smithson and Doris (Smithson) Presley. Ron was a graduate of Parkview High School. As a United States Navy Veteran, he served our country in the Vietnam War. He spent his career in Business and Financial Services, mainly focused on real estate, lending, and helping people.

For all who knew and loved Ron, you were well-versed in his passion for people. He was a private man, but never knew a stranger. There was never any doubt you were accepted and loved. He had a way about him that brought ease and laughter to those he was with. Conversation and relationship was the focus and his active listening skills were on point. He never gave unsolicited advice, but when asked, the invoked wisdom packed a punch. He was a big guy in stature, but massively gentle. He loved meat and potatoes and peanut butter and syrup on bread or saltine crackers. He carried a song in his heart that often found its way to his mouth with jocularity. He loved his family well and walked with the most integrity and character a human can. A beloved father and grandfather. A faithful and loyal friend. Genuine. He lived a life that honored God first and displayed the miraculous power of grace through faith. There is no doubt “well done” was the welcome he received in heaven.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Ellen Smithson of Springfield, daughter and son-in-law Brandy and Cody Berner of Nixa, stepsons, Jacob Burmood, of Kansas City and Phillip Burmood of Springfield. Grandchildren: Elisha, Bentley, and Havanah Berner and Silas Burmood. Also survived by siblings, Joe Patterson,Ladue, Missouri, Mary Jaleen Waxler, Springfield; Debbie Edwards, Springfield; Robin Harris, Springfield; Darryl Presley, Arkansas; Amy Hart, Florida and their families, along with a whole host of loved ones, friends and family who look forward to the day we will see him again!

Preceded in death by his wife, Deborah Kay Smithson; parents, Jackson Smithson and Doris Presley; brother David Presley; and one precious unborn grandchild in heaven.

Graveside services will be held Friday August 6th, 2021 at 2pm in Missouri Veterans Cemetery. A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at a time to be determined at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Ron’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project, in care of the funeral home.