Ronald C. Stevens
Ronald C. Stevens, 89, of Venice Center, NY, passed away Friday, July 17th, 2026, at his home.
Ron was born in Genoa, NY, a son of L. Claude Stevens and Lena Warner. While attending Moravia Central School, he was an active member of the FFA and owned a canned milk route delivering from area farms to the milk plant in Moravia. Rather than continuing in the family beekeeping business, he purchased his grandfather’s farm and established JoRon Farms in 1957. His strong belief in family, hard work, and community service guided him throughout his life. He was a Deacon at the former Venice Baptist Church, a DeKalb seed corn salesman recognized for outstanding sales in 1968, and a 25-year Fire Commissioner with the Scipio Venice Ledyard Fire District. Recognizing the need for local response, he was a charter member and critical voice of reason with the Long Hill Fire Department. He enjoyed the camaraderie during his employment with the Town of Venice Highway Department. Most recently, he traveled the countryside as a deliveryman for Kellogg Auto in Moravia.
John Deere tractors came second only to his family. He maintained his seat at the head of the table for every holiday gathering, greeting the ever-growing number of children that blessed the house. With a gentle grin and patient ear, he always had the best advice with perfect timing. His collection of tractors, while mostly green, brought him great joy. Bringing his passion to life at the Owasco Airfield, many community members participated in his annual tractor show and games. His shop was his sanctuary; there was never a problem that couldn’t be solved or a piece of equipment that couldn’t be repaired.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Joan Carter Stevens; sons, Richard and wife Barbara, William and wife Tracey; daughters, Brenda Bennett, Deborah and husband Ross Hewison, and Kathryn and husband Christopher Fedor. Also, 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by brothers Gerald and Hurley Stevens, and his son John, in 2018.
Funeral services will be held at the New Hope Methodist Church, 3703 State Route 41A, Moravia, 13118, on Saturday, July 25th, at 10:30 AM. Calling hours are Friday, July 24th, from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Wade Funeral Home, 22 Church St., Moravia. Burial will be in the Venice Rural Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Long Hill Volunteer Fire Department, 3513 Long Hill Road, Venice Center, NY 13147, and the Southern Cayuga Instant Aid at 2530 State Route 34B, Poplar Ridge, NY 13139. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald C. Stevens, please visit our floral store.