Ronald Ray Beckham, 73, of Smithville, MO passed away October 24, 2018.

He was born on March 5, 1945, to Raymond Thomas and Edna Irene (Ezell) Beckham in St. Louis, MO, where he grew up and graduated from Riverview Gardens High School. He received bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physics and later his master’s degree in physics, all from University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO. 

On May 29, 1966, he was united in marriage to Beth Cobb. After their marriage they lived in Warrensburg and Kansas City. In 1987, they moved to Smithville where they made their home.

Ron began trusting Jesus while in college and was an active member of Grace Community Church in Smithville. He was also a member of the Do-Si-Doers Square Dance Club. Ron was a Boy Scout Leader and liked coaching and playing softball. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, singing, shooting pool, and could fix anything. Above all he loved spending time with his family and friends. 

He retired as a math teacher from Oak Park High School after 30 years of teaching. After retirement, Ron worked and volunteered in the City Union Mission’s facilities department. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels and served on several mission trips.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother Richard Beckham; brothers Belmont Hake and Tom Beckham; and father-in-law George Cobb.

He is survived by his wife Beth Beckham; children Jeff Beckham and wife Lisa, Chris Beckham and wife Dorothy and Kim Ketteman and husband Matthew; grandchildren Victoria, Lillian, Isabelle, Jonas, Jude, Claire and Wesley; mother-in-law Coleen Cobb; brother-in-law Glen Cobb and wife Evelyn; sister-in-law Lorine Crawford and husband Dale; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

 Memorial Service: 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 27th with visitation from 1:00-2:00 p.m. prior to the service at Grace Community Church, Smithville.

Burial:  Second Creek Cemetery

Donations may be made to Grace Community Church or City Union Mission.