Ronald E. Lemley
Warning: getimagesize(): Filename cannot be empty in /usr/web/cs-washington.ogdennews.com/wp-content/themes/News_Core_2023_WashCluster/includes/single/strategically_placed_photos_article.php on line 139
Warning: Division by zero in /usr/web/cs-washington.ogdennews.com/wp-content/themes/News_Core_2023_WashCluster/includes/single/strategically_placed_photos_article.php on line 142
Ronald E. Lemley, 92, formerly of Waynesburg, passed away December 13, 2017, in ManorCare Health Services, Wilmington, Del.
He was born October 25, 1925, in Waynesburg.
Mr. Lemley worked as a typesetter at the Waynesburg Observer, where he met his future wife. He enlisted in the U.S. Army near the end of World War II. His life career was with West Penn Power Company, retiring in 1988 after 43 years. He served on Franklin Township Sewer Authority.
He was known through the many ways he impacted the community. To some, he was the engineer who helped to build the electric grid in Greene County. To others, he was the man instrumental in bringing little league, senior league and American Legion Baseball to the area and the development of Meadowlark Field and Emerald Field. He coached hundreds of boys at varying ages, with one later being signed to a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs. For others, he was their tax preparer for 55 years, never using a computer. Second, only to his family, was his love of sports. He enjoyed playing golf, watching high school and college football games and attending Pittsburgh Pirates games. However, his sports love was most evident when talking about his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. He would happily share the many memorable moments from his 27 years as a season ticket holder, including being present for the Immaculate Reception and traveling to Super Bowls X and XIII.
Mr. Lemley never knew a stranger. His infectious smile and twinkling blue eyes instantly put people at ease. He possessed the beautiful gift of treating everyone, regardless of social status, with respect and dignity. Even in his waning days, each person entering his room was greeted with his smile and left with a “thank you.” His family affectionately referred to him as “Mr. Mayor” and teased he couldn’t go anywhere without encountering someone he knew.
Without question, his greatest joy came in being a husband and father. He unselfishly served as caregiver for his beloved wife, Mildred, to whom he was married for 66 years. He was a steadfast example of love, encouragement, integrity and character to his entire family. The life lessons he quietly taught, up through his final earthly days, will forever be etched in their hearts.
He is survived by his two sons, Rod (Marsha) and Jim (Suzanne); a daughter, Paula (Jeff); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a brother, Duane (Judie); a sister-in-law, Wildo Headley; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Lemley was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; parents Russell and Anna Lemley; a brother, Francis “Lefty;” and two sisters, Mae and Neva.
Friends will be received from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday in Behm Funeral Home, 182 West High Street, Waynesburg, where a celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, December 18, with the Rev. William Parker officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Township.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite Veterans organization.
Condolences may be offered at www.behmfh.com.