Ron Davidson, 68, went to be with his Savior on November 30th, 2020. Ron was a cherished son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, who will be deeply missed by all who loved him.
Ron was a graduate of Patrick Henry High School, Emory & Henry College and East Tennessee State University. He loved returning to the E&H campus each fall to watch the Wasps play football. Following college, Ron had a varied career as a systems analyst at Burlington Industries, as a college history professor, and as an entrepreneur. His appreciation of football led him to serve as a high school referee for several years. Ron had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and spent many years hiking under the trail name of “T,” a tribute to his love of the University of Tennessee and the Big Orange cap he faithfully wore on the trail. He eventually completed the entire Appalachian Trail, and never felt closer to God or more at peace than when he was hiking.
As an avid outdoorsman, Ron also enjoyed fishing and lake time with family and friends. He felt a close connection to all parts of nature and was an animal lover at heart. He leaves behind a faithful dog, Okie, who will miss Ron fiercely.
Ron was a man of deep thought, of conscience, and of God. He lived by his own principles, outside of the bounds of society’s expectations, and never wavered from his steadfast beliefs and convictions.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Charles William “C.W.” and Nancy Davidson, and brother-in-law, Mark Salyer. He is survived by his son, Eric Davidson, daughter-in-law, Susan Davidson, granddaughter, Claudia Davidson, son, Conor Davidson, daughter, Amy Hamrick, and two granddaughters, Emma and Kara. Ron is also survived by his siblings, Sharon (Jerry) Singleton, Wes (Vickie) Davidson, Mona Salyer, and Jon (Laura) Davidson, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. In addition, he is survived by his loyal Phi Gamma Phi fraternity brothers and special friend, Jamie Zimmerman (J.T., Maddie, and Devon).
The family will not hold a memorial service at this time, and ask that in lieu of flowers, you consider a donation to the Sullivan County Humane Society or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (
appalachiantrail.org).