Ronnie D. Sells, son of the late Wesley Sells and Norma Welchel, was born on August 25, 1945 in Corning, Arkansas and joined his heavenly Father on Good Friday, April 10, 2020. He died at Barnes-Jewish hospital in St. Louis, MO at the age of 74.
Ron was united in marriage to the love of his life, Peggy J. Carlson, on May 13, 1966 in Belleville, IL. Mrs. Sells survives of their home in Dexter, MO.
Ron is survived by three brothers, Bud Sells (Joann), Darrell Sells (Dottie), and Keith Sells (Gail). Besides his parents preceding him in death, also his beloved brother Joel Sells, and his surviving daughters Joy, Janice, and Jennifer.
Ron has three sons, Steve Sells (Krista) of Poplar Bluff, David Sells (Susan) of Piedmont, and Joe Sells (Kate) of Dexter.
He has six granddaughters, Allison Miller (Rus), Riley Jane Crews (Matt), Sara, Sally, Nicole, and Natalie Sells. He has one step granddaughter, Courtnee Jordan (Jason) and one step grandson, Cory Jackson (Taylor).
Ron has one great grandson, Cameron Crews and three step great grandsons, Roman Jordan, Huxley and Beckham Jackson. He has two step great granddaughters, Andie and Piper Jordan.
He was loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and so many friends, especially close friend John Carter (Ramona).
Ron’s most important and proudest accomplishment in life was his family! He always knew what was going on with his family and would be sure to always ask about all our situations specifically. Also, Ron was a great friend. He never met a stranger in life! No matter who they were or what their status was, they would end up being a friend of his.
He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Dexter where he served as an Elder.
Ron was a barber for 15 years and owned his shop with brother Bud in St. Louis before moving to Dexter. In 1978, he opened the McDonald’s restaurant in Dexter when he became an owner/operator. He grew his organization to nine restaurants during his 24-year career before retiring in 2002. He was a successful, active, and respected businessman during his life. He and Peg loved to be involved with their communities. For years they worked and supported local schools, churches, and civic organizations.
Ron was a Shriner, a 32nd Degree Mason, and a member of the Dexter Masonic Lodge #532 for 44 years. He was also a member of the Dexter Elks Lodge for 35 years.
Ron’s other enjoyments and interests included family vacations, holidays, and gatherings. He also enjoyed spending time with friends at classic car auctions and shows, and picking for antiques. Ron loved dogs and had many golden retriever companions.
Ron is loved by all and will be deeply missed!
Memorials may be made, in memory of Ron D. Sells, to: The Ronald McDonald House Charity, 3450 Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
Due to social distancing practices, the family will have a private, invitation-only service at the funeral home and grave site. After the private graveside service, we will have a drive thru service at the gravesite open to anyone on Thursday, April 16 at 3:30 pm at Dexter Cemetery. Then, at a later date, the family will have a full service and celebration of life.
Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is in charge of all arrangements.
