Ronald Lee Heath, Sr.

November 22, 1946 – July 1, 2026

Ronald Lee Heath, Sr., lovingly known as Ronnie, passed away on July 1, 2026, surrounded by the family he devoted his life to. Born on November 22, 1946, in Vincennes, Indiana, and raised in Batavia, Illinois, he grew into a man defined by quiet strength, deep loyalty, and a gentle way of loving that made everyone around him feel seen, supported, and valued.

Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Joyce Ann Heath of La Plata, Maryland. Their marriage was a partnership built on affection, devotion, and a shared commitment to family. Together they created a home filled with love, humor, and enduring connection.

He leaves behind his children, each of whom he cherished deeply and whose accomplishments brought him great pride: Ronald Lee Heath, Jr. and his wife Marsha Lea Heath of La Plata, and Megan Nicole Brittain and her husband Jason Andrew Brittain Sr., of Prince Frederick. 

Ronnie’s joy multiplied with his grandchildren, whose milestones he celebrated with warmth and enthusiasm: Ronald Lee Heath, III and his wife Holly; Ellie Lynn Culver and her husband Zachary; Jason Andrew Brittain, Jr.; Jillian Alanna Brittain.

His heart expanded even further with the arrival of great‑grandchildren, who brought light and laughter into his later years: Montana Rhys Culver, Abigail Lea Heath, Aikman Charles Elder, and Landry Crystal Elder.

He also leaves behind his honorary children, Vu and Ann Nguyen, Nancy Nguyen and Tracy Nguyen and honorary grandchildren Bao Nguyen and Victoria Kim Nguyen.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Harley Hershel Heath and Lela Gertrude Heath, and by his brothers John Douglas (JD) Heath and Gary Allen (Choo) Heath. Their memories remained close to him throughout his life.

After graduating from Batavia High School, Ronnie enlisted in the Army, serving in Vietnam before being stationed at Fort Belvoir. He later built a long career as a Union Printer with Fontana Lithographs. Yet his greatest fulfillment came from running Heath Tax Service, his small business of 50 years, where he formed lasting relationships and took pride in helping others with honesty, care, and personal connection.

Those who knew Ronnie will remember his steady presence, his kindness, and his gift for making every person feel important. Whether through a story, a laugh, or a quiet moment shared, he created bonds that endured. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Ronnie’s life will be held at Arehart‑Echols Funeral Home in La Plata, Maryland, on July 18, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Immediately following the service, a repass will take place at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arehartechols.com

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