Ronald McCallister

Ronald “Ron” Troy McCallister, a devoted family man and highly respected member of his community, passed away peacefully at his home in Mills River, North Carolina, on June 26, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on December 18, 1939, in Greer, South Carolina, Ron lived a life marked by dedication, faith, and goodwill.

Ron is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 63 years, Betty Jo Case McCallister, who was his steadfast partner and confidante. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared countless memories. He leaves behind his cherished sons: Brian Darryl McCallister, Stephen Craig McCallister, and Kevin Scott McCallister and his wife, Emily. Ron was the proud grandfather to Max Everett McCallister, Aidan Troy McCallister, Riley Ann McCallister, Avery Scott McCallister, and Ian Emery McCallister, who fondly knew him as “Pop Pop.” He is also survived by his brother, Scott McCallister, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Troy Ezra and Ruth Hinson McCallister, and his brother, Michael McCallister, Ron’s legacy lives on in the values he instilled in his family and the community he served so diligently.

Ron enjoyed a fulfilling career as an insurance inspector with EquiFax while also pursuing his passion in real estate as the co-owner of Bet-Mac Realty in Mills River since 1986. His commitment to excellence in his work was a testament to his strong-willed and dependable nature.

Ron proudly served in the Army National Guard and reserve for six years, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) before his honorable discharge from the 210th Military Police Company in 1969. During his service, he received a letter of commendation in recognition of his leadership and outstanding management of the N.O.C. Leadership School in West Asheville, NC.

An accomplished golfer, Ron’s skill on the course was remarkable. He won many tournaments, achieved 13 holes-in-one, and was a lifetime single-digit handicapper. He was proud of the fact that, even at the age of 69 and later, he was still able to routinely shoot a score of his age or better. His love for golf extended beyond the game, as he served as the longtime chairman of the Apple Jack Golfing Tournament.

Ron’s dedication to his community was evident in his numerous contributions. He served as the 1978 President of the Hendersonville Apple Festival and was actively involved in the Hendersonville Lions Club, where he held the role of President from 1979-80 and was the Lions Club Liaison to the Boy Scouts. As a founding member of The High Vista golfing community, Ron served as the former President of The High Vista Homeowners Association and was a longstanding member of its Board of Directors. His faith played a central role in his life, and he was a former member of Grace Baptist Church and a current member of French Broad Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon, Choir Director, and co-taught children’s Sunday school classes with his wife Betty for many years, and the number of children in their Sunday school class who they have helped lead to Christ and recite the Books of the Bible in order cannot be counted! Additionally, Ron lent his talents as a vocalist with his gorgeous bass voice and served as President for two years with the West Henderson High School Band Boosters.

As the patriarch of the McCallister family, Ron was a guiding force, leading his family with strength and unwavering faith. He was the cornerstone in guiding his family to Christ, and his legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at French Broad Baptist Church in Mills River, officiated by Pastor Kemuel Pruitt. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at the church.

Committal services will follow at 3:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hendersonville.

Memorial donations may made to the French Broad Baptist Church Youth Ministry by clicking HERE.

Ron McCallister will be dearly missed and forever remembered as a loving husband, father, Pop Pop, and friend to all.