Ronald "Ron" Lee Underwood

Ronald Lee Underwood, 78, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024 at Robin Johnson Hospice House with his loving family by his side. 

He was born in Gaston County on November 3, 1945 to the late Odis Lee and Katherine Herman Underwood. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Ricky Underwood. 

Ron retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of dedicated service. He was a graduate of Gaston College and Belmont Abbey College where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Sociology. Ron enjoyed fishing, singing, watching the Yankees play baseball, and he kept up with the stock market and liked to take his chances on lottery tickets. Most of all he loved to spend time with his family. 

He is survived by his significant other, Gail Friday Leonard; son, Chad Lee Underwood (Elaina); brother, Jerry Underwood (Carolyn), grandchildren, Trevor Lee Underwood, Ella Underwood, Emma Underwood; niece, Jessica Underwood, and nephew, Tyler Underwood. And special members to the family Cris, Elizabeth, Louise and Shepard Leonard.

A celebration of life service will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday May 5, 2024 at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home, with Pastor Dale Lawing officiating. Burial will follow at Hollywood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations be made to alz.org or cancer.org.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com