Ronald "Ronnie" Barton

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Ronald "Ronnie" Barton, who left this world on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025, one day shy of what would have been his 78th birthday. Born on March 26th, 1947, Ronnie was a cherished resident of Lexington, North Carolina.

Ronnie’s life was a testament to courage, passion, and dedication, as reflected in his distinguished military service with the U.S. Army as part of the esteemed 11th Armored Cavalry, fondly known by his comrades as "Black Bart." He carried the values of honor and loyalty throughout his life, continuing to serve his community as a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 48 and the VFW in Clemmons.

An avid lover of cars and a former local race car driver, Ronnie's heart raced with the thrill of NASCAR. His love for the track extended to the greens, where he enjoyed many peaceful rounds of golf. Ronnie also had a particular fondness for reading and indulging in the occasional little gambling trip, where he’d share laughter and stories with dear friends.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his loving parents, Glenn Robert and Florence Barton, and his beloved wife, Susan Barton. He leaves behind a family that dearly loves him, including his devoted daughter Anna Hart and her husband, Joseph; his brother Phil Barton and wife, Sandy; and his sister Beth Huber and husband, Dan. Ronnie’s memory will be cherished always by his granddaughter, Ashley Hart, who brought joy to his every day, and his numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and nephews.

He was also deeply loved by his special friend, Diane Hudson, and held dear friendships with Randy Cribbs and Mike Dillingham, who will miss him greatly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ronnie's life during a visitation at Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel on Thursday, March 27th, from 6-8 PM, where stories of his warmth and kindness will be shared. A graveside service honoring Ronnie's life and service to his country will be held at Catawba Memorial Park, located at 3010 US-70, Newton, NC 28658, on Friday, March 28th at 2:00 PM.

To carry him to his final resting place, Ronnie's pallbearers will be Alex Collette, Ryan Collette, Peyton Collette, Bart Huber, Robbie Barton, and his granddaughter, Ashley Hart, who will embody the strength and unity Ronnie instilled in those he loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Ronnie's memory to the American Parkinson Disease Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306, to aid in the fight that affected his courageous spirit.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel. Ronnie will be remembered not only for his passions and service but for the love and wisdom he shared with all who knew him. He will live on in our hearts forever.