Ronald Earl Batson

Ronald Earl Batson, 89, quietly passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at NHC-Greenville. A true original, born and raised in the heart of Travelers Rest, South Carolina, he was a man who planted his roots deep in the soil he loved and never found a reason to wander far from the place he proudly called home. A familiar and comforting face to everyone in town, he was the definition of a people person—who never met a stranger. Whether you were a lifelong neighbor or someone passing through, a conversation with him always felt like catching up with an old friend. His commitment to his community and brotherhood was evident through his dedication as a Mason with the Cooper Masonic Lodge #282. Ronald was a member of Enoree Baptist Church, where he spent many Sunday's enjoying the worship and fellowship with friends and neighbors. Professionally, he gave decades of hard work and leadership to Marshall & Williams Sheet Metal Fabrication, where his strong work ethic and steady guidance earned him the role of supervisor before his well-deserved retirement. Beyond his main career, he had a lifelong passion for the used car business, spending countless hours buying, trading, and talking shop, fueled by his love for a good deal and the folks he met along the way. When he wasn’t working, you could easily guess where to find him: cheering on the Tigers: An avid, unapologetic Clemson fan, autumn weekends were strictly reserved for Clemson football, orange gear, and high hopes. At the bingo table: he loved the thrill, the friendly competition, and above all, the camaraderie of a good game of Bingo. He leaves behind a rich legacy of hard work, warm conversations, and an unwavering love for his hometown and family. His absence will be deeply felt at the local gathering spots, but his story will remain a cherished part of Travelers Rest history. Left to cherish his memory are his two daughters, Ronda Jackson (Bob) and Debbie Laico (Michael); five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his special friend, Iris Nelson. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Baylis Earl Batson and Blanche Langley Batson and his only sibling, Barbara Mahaffey. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:15 p.m. at The Howze Mortuary in Travelers Rest. The funeral service will follow at 1:30 p.m. in the Chapel. Burial will be at Mountain View Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Enoree Baptist Church, 881 Tigerville Road, Travelers Rest, SC, 29690, or online at https://www.enoreebaptistchurch.com/give. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thehowzemortuary.com. The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is assisting the family with arrangements. (864) 834-8051.

Ronald Earl Batson

March 19, 1937 - August 9, 2026