In Remembrance Of

Ron Beckham

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.

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Comments & condolences

24 comments

  • Steve Gillaspie

    To the family,
    We love you all. We are praying for all during this time of loss.

  • Gina Roberts Martin

    I had the pleasure of having 10th grade Algebra with Mr. Beckham. I had a part time job at the time and it kept me from my studies. He gave me the best advice, focus on school , more than the job. I wish I would have taken his advice. He was a kind and wise man.

  • Stephen L Crawley

    Rest in peace

  • Kathy and Dale Debner

    We are so sorry for your loss! Many great memories of times together. Praying peace and comfort only our Lord can bring.

  • Richard & Laura Schmude

    Very sorry for your family’s loss!
    Ron was a one of a kind, and a respected brother in Christ. He leaves a wonderful Godly legacy in his family! Much love and prayers for peace and comfort as you all grieve & celebrate his life!
    ~ the Schmudes

  • Sherri Nelson

    Thinking of you and your family.

  • Hannah Truxal-Velazquez

    My condolences on your loss. Love you all. I have many cherished memories of the Beckham family. Praying for you all through this difficult time.

  • John n Deborah Truxal

    We love you all , so sorry to hear of Ron s passing , he is a wonderful Godly man , who has lived a righteous, loving giveing life , he was my help in math studies when I was in college, working thru my math shotgivings , he was always ready n willing to help anyone in need, we miss you Ron and will always love you . You are one of the kindest gentlest person , of a calm n peaceful nature , always had a smile , was honest n strong in spirit , we will all miss you . We love you Beth and children , blessings mercy and grace , we will see you tomorrow, praying for yu all . Love Deb n John

  • John and Pam Moudy

    Ron will be truly missed, a very soft spoken man that always had time to really listen when we talked. Heaven just became a little richer. This is not a good-by but simply, I will see you later.
    John

  • Kent & Novella Rathjen

    God be with you all, as you lay Ron to rest. His life is such a testimony to what he valued–his Lord and his family. We know you’ll miss him, and feel the loss. We’re so glad you can look forward to a reunion, tho. Ron and Beth raised an amazing family, and we love you all!

  • Jesse J Camacho

    Jeff, I knew your dad. I had him in geometry. Those were my rebellious/class-clown years (which hopefully will be behind me soon). I expect you to miss him much.

  • EJ and Diann Barnes

    Beth, you are being prayed for, asking God to surround you with peace.

  • Micah &Morgan Wood

    Heaven has a new gardener, mansion handyman and throne room choirmaster. We know it’s so hard right now and in the days to come, but we rejoice with you in Ron’s life well spent and hope of eternity together again. We love you dear friends and may God’s precious grace abound

  • William & Mary Lou Ribble

    With condolences and heartfelt sympathy , love to Beth and all the family. We feel blessed to have known you as our neighbors and friends. Love and Prayers to all. God Bless.
    Mary Lou, Bill, Laurie, Janice and family.

  • Richard and Marguerite Shackelford

    We are so very sorry to hear this sad news. He was so loved by many. Our thoughts and prayers to all of you

  • Bob & Chris Peterson

    Chris & Dot & family,
    So sorry that your Dad has passed. Our prayer is that you find comfort knowing that his heart belonged to Jesus.

  • Duane and Marilyn Colke

    Beth and children, we are sad with you, but know you find comfort in knowing where he is and your many sweet memories. We will be out of town during the memorial service. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

  • Cathy Stowell Howland

    Our thoughts and prayers are coming to you
    during this time of great sadness! Love Cathy,
    Phil, Chelsea, Elizabeth , and Spencer

  • Dennis and Kellie Stratman

    We are so sorry for your loss. Ron was always a very gentle and kind man. He will be missed.

  • Betty Sprouse

    I am so sorry for your loss. Ron will be greatly missed.
    Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
    Betty Sprouse

  • Vicki Coy

    My heart is heavy for you Kim and your entire family. Although I never had the privilege of meeting your father he had to be a wonderful man to have helped raise such a beautiful daughter. I feel blessed to have met your Mother earlier this year and I know your Aunt Lorine and what godly women they both are. My prayers are with each of you. Sorry I’ll be out of town and unable to make it to the service. Love you sweet Kim!

  • Sunshine Coady

    I am so sad to hear of Ron’s death. It has been years since we’ve seen each other. My thoughts and prayers go out to each one
    May the Holy Spirit give you comfort and peace knowing Ron is in Jesus’ arms. Sunshine, Chance, Dustin and Brittany.

  • Brenda Sander

    Beth, so sorry for your loss. Prayers of comfort to you and your family

  • Gary and Mary Sue Babb

    We are very sorry to hear about the death of our good friend, Ron. He will be missed, but we know that there is a celebration in heaven!

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