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Ronald Irvin Emerson, age 79, of Alachua, Florida, went to be with the Lord and his heavenly family on Oct. 29, 2016 as a result of an auto accident.

He was loved and cherished by his wife of 58 years, Marsha Hester Emerson; his son Greg Emerson (Susan) of Alachua; daughters Robin Watson (Archie) of Quincy, Florida, Paula Webb (Herb) of Gainesville, Florida; eight grandchildren, Justin Webb (Madi), Emily Emerson Presnell (Trey), Cody Watson, Hannah Emerson, Dustin Watson, Megan Watson, Dillon Webb, Sarah Webb; brothers Wade Emerson (Susie), Wayne Emerson (Karen) and brother-in-law Jimmy Hester (Sondra).

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Waldo and Mildred Ivey Emerson, his brothers Gerald Emerson and Dennis Emersonm, and a sister-in-law, Jean Meyer (Clark).

Ronnie was born and raised on the family farm in Bland, Florida, where he began his lifelong love of hunting, especially coon hunting, for which he held several World Titles for his coonhounds. After graduating from Ringling College of Arts and Design, he worked as an advertising director for Affiliated Grocers, Higdon Grocers and B&B Grocers, where he retired in 2002.

Ronnie loved his family, enjoyed spending time with them and was proud of their accomplishments. He was also looking forward to the birth of their first great-grandchild.

Ronnie’s family also included his coon hunting buddies. For them, he was a mentor, brother and a father figure. He will also be missed by his loyal coon dogs, always ready to hunt.

Ronnie and Marsha worshipped the Lord at First Baptist Church of High Springs.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Spring Hill Methodist Church, 23300 Old Bellamy Road, Alachua.

In lieu of flowers, please help us honor Ronnie through the North Florida Coon Hunting Club with the “Ronnie Emerson Memorial Youth Hunt.” Please send donations to North Florida Coon Hunting Club, 8861 S.W. State Rd. 121, Lake Butler, FL 32054.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Evans-Carter Funeral Home, High Springs, Florida, 386-454-2444.