Ronald Walden

Ronald Blake Walden, known affectionately as Ronald to his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on February 16, 2024, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on March 4, 1963, in Houston County, Alabama, Ronald's life was a testament to the simple joys that come from love, hard work, and dedication to family.

Ronald attended Houston Academy, where he nurtured his early interests and formed lifelong friendships. He dedicated over two decades of his career to Williams Cadillac in the paint and body shop, where his meticulous work was greatly valued. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate Southern Collision for many years, where his reputation for excellence was well-known throughout the community.

Family was the cornerstone of Ronald's life. He is survived by his sons, Kevin (Toni) Gamble and Blake (Kristi) Walden; his daughter, Heather Marie Walden; his adored grandchildren, Katlyn Gamble, Caleb Gamble, Breanna Grace Key, and Dawson Walden; and his cherished great-grandchild, Allie Reese Gamble. Ronald's loving presence will also be missed by his brother, Joel Wilson; his sister, Rochelle Gray; and several nieces and nephews, including Scott Armour and Joey Wilson. Each family member held a special place in his heart, and he devoted his life to creating cherished memories with them.

Ronald's interests reflected his love for life's simple pleasures. He was an avid fan of stock car racing, often found at the tracks in Kinston and Cottonwood, surrounded by friends and family, cheering on his favorite drivers. Music was another passion, with Southern Rock and Roll providing the soundtrack to many of his life's moments. His Victory Motorcycle was a source of pride and joy, symbolizing the freedom and adventure he cherished.

Described as friendly, gentle, and handy, Ronald's personality was a blend of sweetness and stubbornness, a man who was both tender in his old age and unapologetically set in his ways. His hard-headed nature was often seen as a sign of his unwavering principles and his commitment to living life on his own terms.

A celebration of Ronald's life will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, where Rev. Andy Kogutz will officiate. Ronald will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park, a place of peace and remembrance. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 1-2 pm, where stories will be shared, and Ronald's life will be honored in the presence of those who loved him most.

In remembering Ronald, we recall the words of Henry Van Dyke, "Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity." Ronald's legacy is one of love, a love that transcends time and continues to resonate in the hearts of his family and friends.

As we bid farewell to a man of strength, character, and warmth, we take comfort in knowing that Ronald Blake Walden lived a life full of the important things—family, friendship, and the joy of life's simple moments. He will be dearly missed, but the memories he created will forever be a beacon of light for those who were fortunate enough to know him.