Ronald Boyd Gobble

Ronald Boyd Gobble, 85, passed away peacefully at his home on August 31st surrounded by his family. He fought a long and courageous 19-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Ronald was born in Lexington, NC on June 15,1939 to Boyd Clement (Dick) and Rebecca Gobble of Reeds. He attended Pine Primitive Baptist Church as long as his health permitted.  Both Ronald’s and his family’s faith were of great importance in his life. His gentle and sweet nature, quick sense of humor, and contagious smile brought joy to those who knew him.

Ronald was President and co-owner of Gobble & Callahan Concrete for 48 years. The business was built slowly over a lifetime of early mornings, late evenings, and hard work.  Ronald sold his interest in 2010, and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to fulfill his dream that same year when he started his new plant, Gobble Concrete.

Ronald was well liked and respected by his employees, and he was affectionately referred to as Boss or Boss-Man. He found joy in watching former employees venture out on their own and becoming business owners themselves.  Ronald’s strong work ethic began early in life when he worked at his family’s store in Reeds where he enjoyed RC Colas and Moon Pies. At 15 years old, he worked at an upholstery shop in High Point, and then as a bus driver at Reeds High School.

Ronald’s tenacious spirit and determination led to his heroic fight against Parkinson’s.  You would oftentimes see him walking laps with his rollator around the driveway.  Ronald completed the LSVT Parkinson’s program, which was instrumental in improving his mobility for many years. His perseverance led him to be referred to as a “tough old bird” and the strongest man many people had ever known.

Ronald was above all a loving and dedicated family man. He met the love of his life, his soulmate, Betty Zane Williams, while at Reeds High School. They spent much of their courtship at Old Hickory BBQ ordering curb service.  Their love was one to be admired, and Betty faithfully remained by Ronald’s side throughout his illness. They met when they were 15, and Betty enjoyed being called the “bride of his youth”. They celebrated their 66th anniversary in December 2023.  They shared a beautiful and true love throughout their marriage.

Ronald was the most loving (and loved) “daddy” that you would ever know to his two daughters and a true role model for his much-loved grandchildren. He was so excited for the arrival of his great grandson, Ashton.

Ronald is survived by his wife Betty Zane Williams Gobble; daughters Dale Rea Middleton (Andy) and Robin Garrison (Chris); six grandchildren Cole Middleton, Alicia Middleton Coe (Eli), Chase Middleton, Cody Middleton, Tanner Garrison (Abby) and Logan Garrison; great-grandson Ashton Garrison; sister Annelle Owens; nieces Lisa Brown, Angie Wright and nephews Greg Gobble, Tony Owens, Mark Williams, Jeffrey Owens, and Chad Parks.  He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Mary Ruth Parks and Carroll Kay Williams.  Ronald is preceded in death by his beloved parents B.C. and Rebecca Gobble; his brother Charles Gobble; and his brothers-in-law Charles Williams, Bobby Owens, and Kent Parks.

Ronald’s humble, easy-going nature and quick wit will forever be etched in the minds of people who knew him. He was quiet, but his humor and actions spoke more than any words could ever say.

Ronald’s enduring love earned him the title of Best Husband, Daddy, and Pop Pop.  He brought so much love and joy to his family. Betty would like to thank her sister, Mary Ruth Parks, and sisters-in-law Annelle Owens and Carroll Kay Williams for their love and support. We would like to thank our caretakers who brought not only excellent care but love and laughter to Ronald’s life: Elizabeth New, Arlene Carrick, Abby Brady, Julia Harris and others who cared for him throughout the years.  Ronald entertained them and made everyone laugh even through his final days. We would also like to thank Lori and Kaitlyn with Hospice of Davidson County for their exceptional care and support.

Visitation will be at Pine Primitive Baptist Church in Churchland on Saturday, September 7th at 11:00 am.  The funeral will immediately follow visitation at 12 pm with Elder David Anderson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pine Primitive Baptist Church C/O Ray Spainhour, 280 Allred Road, Lexington, NC 27292. Online or mailed donations can be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation of Greensboro, 216 W. Market St B Greensboro, NC 27401; Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC 27292; or Michael J Fox Parkinson’s Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741.