Ronald Dean High, age 81, of Oak Grove, received his heavenly reward on Sunday, May 17, 2026. He was born September 22, 1944, in Maple, AR, to Dolph and Thelma Vanwinkle High. On June 14, 1962, Ron married the love his life, Betty Avery.

A quiet and patient man, Ron left a legacy for his family to follow for generations to come. He taught them the values of faith, family, and hard work. He was very generous and willing to help anyone in need. He loved the outdoors, from hunting and fishing, to sitting on the front porch and reading a western book. And though he was quiet, he loved to tell stories.

Ron spent his career working primarily in the excavation business. Early in his career he worked as a carpenter and a mason, traits that he passed on to his son. He would laugh when people would mistake him for country singer Don Williams, especially when he would wear his straw hat. He began working with the Oak Grove Fire Department in 1991 when the department first started, serving 4 years as the chief, and a total of 30 years with the department. He was also a member of The Harvest Assembly of God church in Oak Grove.

One of Ron’s final wishes was to let everyone know, it was a great day to die. Though he will be missed, he will be waiting for his family and friends to join him in heaven.

Ron is survived by his wife Betty of the home; 1 son, Tony and wife Chandra High of Oak Grove; 3 grandsons, Brennan and his wife Jacey High of Maple, Mickenzie and his wife Sydney High of Fayetteville, and Cameron and his wife Emily High of Oak Grove; and 7 great grandchildren, Orion, Avery, Aquila, Emmitt, Juniper, Micah and Eli.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Rhonda High, and all his siblings.

Celebration of Life service for Ron will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at The Harvest Assembly of God in Oak Grove with Pastor Todd Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at Hale Cemetery, led by the Oak Grove Fire Department. Online condolences can be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.