Ronnie Glenn Townsend

Ronnie Townsend of White Oak died peacefully in his home from Lou Gehrig Disease Monday, January 21 surrounded by his children and family. Ronnie was diagnosed with this unforgiving disease July 2011. He has been our example and strength throughout his courageous fight. Ronnie accepted his jouney without complaint and fought the diease like everything in life...his way. He will be forever loved and missed by his children, family, and many friends. We will miss his smile, sense of humor, and most importantly his protection. He has also been our teacher for his example in how to face such adversity. Ronnie owned several businesses throughout his life, Townsend Masonary, Quality Auto, and most recently Townsend Construction, but he has dearly enjoyed owning, racing, and restoring his racing cars. His red 1967 Camero has been envied and admired by many and most recently he has been restoring a 1969 Camero. Ronnie was born December 12, 1957, in Gilmer, Texas. He celebrated his 55th birthday on December 12, 2012. Ronnie is preceeded in death by his father, Glenn Townsend. He is survived by two children, Joe Townsend and daughter Beth Townsend both of White Oak, two granddaughters, Brooklyn Townsend and Madison Kisamore, a mother, Grace McMullen of Longview and three sisters, Karen Hicks of Longview, Glenda Sperier of Ore City and Debbie Giles of Dallas. Many nieces and nephews were fortunate to call him uncle. His journey could never have been taken alone. We sincerely thank the Muscular Dystrophy Association, our friends Debbie Dooley, Sandra, and Cindy of LifeCare Hospice, Jennifer Hall who came running anytime we called and most especially his caregiver, Connie Clay. Words can never express our gratitude for helping us love and care for Ronnie so well. In lieu of flowers, please consider a charity of your choice or LifeCare Hospice, 1809 Gilmer Rd, Longview 75604 who will use contributions to care for indigent patients during their final days. Services will be on Wedensday, January 23, 2013, at 2 P.M. at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel in Gladewater. Interment will follow in Lakeview Memorial Gardens in White Oak. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 P.M. on Tuesday, January 22, 2013, at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater.