Ronald Lee Messick's Obituary
Ronald “Ronnie” Lee Messick, age 83, of Bridgeville, Delaware, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, January 10, 2025. He was born on August 10, 1941, in Lewes, Delaware, the son of the late Cecil and Blanche (Henry) Messick.
Ronnie was a graduate of Bridgeville High School, class of 1959. He honorably served in the Army National Guard for six years, a testament to his dedication and service to his country. On October 4, 1963, he married the love of his life, Ellen Beard Messick, at Wesley United Methodist Church, beginning a marriage that would span 61 years.
A lifelong farmer, Ronnie found his true calling in the agricultural industry. He began working as a poultry grower with Perdue Farms, where he spent 51 rewarding years contributing to the family farm’s success. His work ethic and dedication to his craft were admired by many.
Ronnie was deeply involved in his community and church. He was a lifetime member of Wesley United Methodist Church, where he found much joy in both worship and fellowship serving as a Trustee, Sunday School Superintendent, and Chairman of the Board. His interests extended beyond farming—he was a proud member of the Mason Dixon Woodworkers and the First State Antique Tractor Club. He also loved woodworking, line dancing, fishing, eating ice cream, and especially spending quality time with family and friends, often gathering at the family pond.
In addition to his wife of 61 years, Ellen, Ronnie is survived by his daughters: Karen Willin, Amy Hale (husband Dave), and Jennifer Kerr (husband Keith). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Kaitlyn Smith (husband Russell), Kyle and Korey Kerr, and Cameron Hale, along with his great-grandchildren, Ryder, and Sawyer Smith. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and in-laws who cherished him dearly and many people he was proud to call friends.
In addition to his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his sister, Louise Warrington, and his brothers, William, and LeRoy Messick.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Ronnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His warm heart, steady presence, and sense of humor made a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Bridgeville, DE, where friends and family may call beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Odd Fellow Cemetery, 514 Third Street, Seaford, DE 19973.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Ronnie's memory to the Wesley Fellowship Church, 22025, Atlanta Road, Seaford, DE 19973, or to Mason Dixon Woodworkers, PO Box 103, Delmar, DE 19940.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3:00 PM ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025, TO OUR BRIDGEVILLE LOCATION.
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