Ronald Keith "Ronnie" Bruton, husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, PawPaw, and friend, died Saturday, November 2, 2024, peacefully at his home, after a life filled with love, laughter, and countless connections made over his 75 years.
He was born April 15, 1949, at Highsmith Hospital in Fayetteville to Margaret H. and D.P. Bruton. He made his mark early as the eldest of three children. His magnetic personality blossomed at Seventy-First High School, where his classmates in the Class of 1968 voted him 'Best Personality.' He was also active in sports and leadership, playing JV basketball, competing in track—where he reached the state finals — was a member of Student Council, and served as President of the Future Business Leaders of America. He took great pride in being a Falcon. After high school, he attended King's Business College in Charlotte.
His favorite moments were often the quietest ones: settling into the best seat in the house (his recliner), rocking on the front porch, watching his favorite westerns (even if he'd seen them 99 times before), attending auctions, collecting antiques, telling a good joke, mowing his field, or making what he called "necessary" trips to Ag Supply, Harbor Freight Tools, or the local NAPA store – trips that inevitable turned into social occasions.
He never met a stranger; if you weren't already his friend, it was only because he hadn't met you yet. He loved being social, would stop by someone's home—possibly uninvited but always welcomed—and on more than one occasion threw large gatherings just to have his favorite people in one place. During holidays, he became known for his personal delivery of annual gifts, often featuring Houston's Peanuts or cakes baked locally, turning simple gestures into cherished traditions.
A man of exceptional work ethic, he began working at an early age, picking tobacco, and over the years, he wore many hats, most notably as co-owner of 401 Sand Co. in Raeford, NC with his long-time friend Alex Lindsay for over three decades and as owner of the Sea Captain Motorlodge, Sea Captain Restaurant, and Ocean Outfitters in Southport, NC. His entrepreneurial ventures also included Bruton Transport, Bruton Trailer Sales and Bruton Wash in Red Springs, NC. Ever the optimist, he even tried his hand at soybean farming – just because he could.
He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Jean H. Bruton; his four children, Corbin Bruton (Nohemy) of Kill Devil Hills, NC, Ashley Bruton of Greenville, SC, Mary Gibson (Mike) of Red Springs, NC, and Joey Adams of Hendersonville, NC. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra Bruton of Fayetteville, and Debbie Shackelford (Harper) of Fayetteville; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who lovingly called him "PawPaw," a title he wore with immense pride.
He was, however, not a fan of funerals, so the family will honor his life in a way that suits him best—with a gathering of friends and family. A visitation to celebrate his life will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 2pm-4pm, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by spreading joy through an act of kindness or a donation to a local charity close to your heart.
Online condolences may be sent to http://www.jerniganwarren.com