Ronald L. “Ronnie” Patterson, 80, of Mont Belvieu, Texas, peacefully passed away on May 21, 2026. He was born on July 18, 1945, in Orange, Texas, to Robert E. Patterson and Pearlie Robinson Patterson.
Ronnie spent his life building a legacy through hard work, dedication, and love for his family and community. He built a successful career in the auto parts industry, opening Mont Belvieu Auto Supply in 1974, followed by R & L Auto Supply in 1983, and later L & R RV Park in 1999. He was known for his incredible work ethic and determination, rarely missing a day of work in his life. The only guaranteed day you’d find the store closed was Sunday — because that day belonged to Ronnie and Linda and a trip to the casino.
Ronnie will be remembered not only for what he built, but for the way he treated people. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and valued. If you stopped by “Ronnie’s,” chances are you’d find him at the register with a cigarette in his hand, ready with a story, a joke, or advice whether you asked for it or not.
He was a man with a generous heart who would help anyone who needed it. Ronnie never thought twice about lending money, helping someone through a difficult time, or showing up when people needed him. Over the years, he quietly helped countless friends and family members, including bailing many out of tough situations, simply because he cared.
Ronnie loved his family fiercely and found his greatest joy in being surrounded by those he loved most. To his grandchildren, he was more than Pawpal or Pops— he was safety, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. He loved sharing stories, offering life lessons, supporting their dreams, and creating memories that will live on forever. He also took along a few adopted granddaughters to see the world — though they usually had to work for it first and could count on hearing a little grief from him the entire way.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. Patterson and Pearlie Robinson Patterson; his son, Ronald Lynn Patterson; and his brother, Patrick Patterson.
Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Linda Patterson; his grandchildren, Jenay Patterson and husband John Farley, Dalton Patterson and fiancée Rilea Trousdale; and many other family members and friends who will continue honoring his legacy through the love and lessons he leaves behind.
A visitation will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home.
Serving as pallbearers will be Davis Gobert, Larry Evans, Randy Dillard, Anthony Tiemann, Jay Aylor, and Mitchell Harmon.
Though his family’s hearts are broken, they find comfort in knowing Ronnie’s love, laughter, generosity, and unforgettable smile will live on in everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Ronnie was definitely a ledge in this area, and one of a kind. Rest in peace sir. Thanks for all you have done for me and my family.
When he would bring Bella in for her grooming he would always have a smile on his face. He was the sweetest man. Sending many prayers for his family during this time of heartbreak. He will definitely be missed.
I dealt with Ron and Linda for many years. He was always fair and honest with you. What he said he meant and treated everyone with respect. RIP my friend. Dennis Odell