Ronald Dorris

Ronald “RD” Dorris loved life, and we were blessed with him for over 86 years. Born in 1939 to Wallace and Evelyn Dorris, he grew up in Evansville, IN, the son of a minister. After the untimely passing of his father in 1951, RD moved to West Frankfort, IL, with his mother and younger brother Tom. Life was hard for a single mother raising two sons, but Evelyn raised her boys with a determination that they would succeed. Both boys were raised with a love of music, and each was blessed with exceptional talent--RD went to Southern Illinois University on a full music scholarship. Although the love of music and performing never left him, after two years of study, RD no longer wanted to become a concert pianist and transferred to Samford University in Birmingham, AL, where he met his first wife, Bebe. After graduation, RD combined his love for travel, airplanes, and his love for America by joining the US Air Force. RD’s career in the Air Force took him all over the world, with notable stops in the Philippines and Germany. In 1970, his son Blake was born, and in 1973, his daughter Susan was born. Sadly, Susan was born with physical challenges and passed away just before her first birthday. In 1994, RD was sent to Austin, TX, where he spent the final years of his career and met his second wife, Freda Gardner. He was highly successful in his career and retired as a full Colonel in 1997. But RD lived to serve, and after his career in the Air Force, he volunteered for 12 years at St. David’s in Round Rock. RD loved Texas, and in retirement, he enjoyed his life with Freda and her sons Chad and Ben as they grew up, and he loved them as his own. RD loved life, and he was never without a joke or smile to lighten someone’s load. He was a deeply caring man, always looking for ways he could help. He leaves behind many friends, made all over the world, and he leaves us with many happy memories, all of which involved laughter and love for his friends and family. Highlights about the deceased's life, accomplishments, work, study, etc. RD loved America, and he served his country for 35 years in the US Air Force. In his career, he was most proud of leading teams to success, and he did so in the Air Force’s Gunsmoke competition several times. RD also loved serving God, and as an exceptional musician, he enjoyed sharing his gift by playing the piano for church throughout his life. His offerings were amazing! But most of all, RD loved caring for his loved ones, in any way he could—whether through his generosity, his willingness to listen and share some hard-earned street-smart wisdom, or a fantastic home-cooked meal. He is, and will be, greatly missed. List of Names and relationship to the Deceased who preceded in death. Ronald is preceded in death by Wallace Dorris- Father; Evelyn Dorris- Mother; Susan Dorris- Daughter; and Ben Gardner- Stepson. He is survived by Freda Gardner- Wife; Tom Dorris- Brother; Chad Gardner- Stepson; Kristen Gardner- Daughter-in-Law; Blake Dorris- Son; Belinda Dorris- Daughter-in-Law; Bebe Dorris- ex-Wife; Grandchildren: Brooke and Carlie Dorris; Abby, Davis, and Briley Gardner. The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice North for their care in RD’s final days, especially Helen, Carol, Ashley, Lauryn, and Noah. RD's celebration of life will be held on July 18th, at 1:00pm, at the chapel on the campus of the Texas Baptist Children's Home--1101 N Mays in Round Rock TX. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Children at Heart Ministries, at 1301 N Mays ST, Round Rock, TX 78664 or www.cahm.org

Ronald Dorris

June 11, 1939 - May 19, 2026