The family of Ronnie Gene Coats would like to celebrate his memory by sharing a few details of a life well lived. Ronnie was born on February 10, 1942 to Robert and Emma Lloyd Coats of McLoud, Oklahoma. Ronnie was born at home and was the 3rd of 5 children. Ronnie's siblings were Robert, Tina, Lester and Roy Lee. Eventually, the Coats family moved to Shawnee, Oklahoma, where Ronnie and his siblings attended ACME Public Schools. ACME was a small rural school and home to many community children. Ronnie enjoyed the time spent in the gym before school began by practicing basketball. Ronnie's mother worked in the school cafeteria, which made it especially nice when lunchtime rolled around. After graduating from 9th grade at ACME, Ronnie attended Shawnee High School in Shawnee, Oklahoma. During middle and high school, Ronnie worked steadily in learning the rudiments of the automobile industry. Ron's professional experience included working in tire shops, filling stations, automobile dealerships, and auto body shops performing paint and restoration work. Ronnie eventually established Ron's Auto Body and Paint shop in the Oklahoma City area. Through these experiences, Ronnie learned the meaning of a well-earned paycheck, and developed an exceptional work ethic that remained with him throughout his adult life. Ron met and married Sharon Jones, of Shawnee, Oklahoma at the age of 19. This marriage took place on February 2, 1961. To this marriage, three lovely girls were born; Krista Louise, Kama Kay, and Kara Noel. Ron's second marriage was to Ramona Jean Drew, of Edmond, Oklahoma. This marriage took place on June 27, 1975. To this union was brought two wonderful sons, Billy Vaughn and John Boy. Ron and Ramona were married 39 years. Ron's interests extended far above and beyond his skilled handiwork with automobiles. Ron dedicated his life to ministry efforts and was first certified to preach the gospel at the age of 24. With additional training and taking every opportunity to serve, he was able to provide love and compassion to many in nursing homes, homeless shelters, retirement centers and prisons. By fulfilling the great commission, Ron's life demonstrated a solid and profound commitment to Jesus, his Savior and Lord. Ron's love for his family was notable. He was a faithful and loyal husband and a loving role model for his children and grandchildren. His non-judgmental manner and unconditional love was proven in countless ways. Our thanks and appreciation is extended to those friends and family members that stood in faithful support of Ronnie during his time of illness. He ran a good race and fought a good fight only because of the love, compassion and support of all those that loved him. Ronnie walked through heaven's gates on May 18, 2014. We miss him already. Services will be Wednesday, May 21, 10:00am at Mercer-Adams Chapel with interment in Yukon Cemetery. Funeral Service Wednesday, May 21, 2014 10:00 AM Mercer-Adams Chapel 3925 N. Asbury Bethany, OK 73008