Rev. Ronald "Ron" O. Frye's Obituary
Racine - Reverend Ronald O. Frye, 78, entered into eternal rest on May 26, 2024, to be reunited with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Born in Fayette, Ohio, on February 2, 1946, to the late Reverend Harold and Esther (nee Johnstone) Frye, Ron's life was a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to serving others.
Ron's journey of faith began at an early age, nurtured by the loving guidance of his parents. He graduated from Washington Park High School in 1964 and went on to pursue his higher education at Olivet Nazarene College in Kankakee, IL, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Education in 1968. Ron's thirst to follow God’s calling to become a pastor led him to the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO, where he furthered his studies from 1968 to 1971.
On August 19, 1967, Ron exchanged vows with the love of his life, Donna J. Geeding, at the Taylor Avenue Church of the Nazarene in Racine. The very same church Ron’s father pastored and where Ron and Donna met and began dating as young teens. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, faith, and service to God.
Throughout his ministry callings, Ron touched the lives of countless individuals across various communities from Bethel Church of the Nazarene in Detroit, MI, Oshkosh Church of the Nazarene in Oshkosh, WI, Oak Lawn Church of the Nazarene in Oak Lawn, IL, St. Joseph’s Church of the Nazarene in St. Joseph, MO, Muncie Mission in Muncie, IN, to Lighthouse Recovery Ministries (wRap Kids) in Racine, WI. Ron's dedication to spreading the message of God's love was unwavering. He served with humility, compassion, a fun-loving spirit and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Ron's servant heart was mirrored in his love for his family. He was a devoted husband to Donna for 56 years, a loving father to Melissa (Shawn) Goodin and Heather (Joshua) Childs, and a cherished grandfather to Cydney, Macaela, Gavin, Jaden, Summer, Joses, and Jairus. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy of faith and love will live on through them.
Ron will be fondly remembered by his siblings, Hal (Jan) Frye and Sherry (Jim) Leitzman; brother-in-law, Dan Geeding; nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Harold and Mrs. Esther Frye; in-laws, Esther and Gene Royse; sister-in-law, Sylvette Geeding; and cousins, Tim and Paul Smith, along with several aunts and uncles.
Ron's life was a testament of his love for Jesus, steadfast faith, boundless love, and joyful spirit. His impact on the lives of those around him will be cherished forever.
A celebration of Ron's life will be held at the Taylor Avenue Church of the Nazarene, 2100 Taylor Ave. Racine, WI 53403 on June 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Melissa Goodin, Ron's daughter, will be leading the memorial service. Livestreaming will take place on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89260145203?pwd=9pYjQt4mSOsDEZqIvHeyKNPUwZQoeg.1 (Password: Ron)
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Racine Prayer Room and the multitude of dear friends who fervently lifted prayers, hearts, and hands in faith, facilitating Ron and Donna's transition into Harvest Home. Your love and support have been deeply appreciated.
Though Ron may be absent from our sight, Ron's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal love of his Savior.
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