Ron Stager

Deacon Ronald Francis Stager, 73, of Jacksonville, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on November 5, 2025, following a tragic car accident. Ron was born on October 2, 1952, in Hemet, California, to the late James and Dorothy Stager. He was also preceded in death by his beloved daughter-in-law, Linsey Stager.

 He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 54 years, Kathy Stager; and their eight children: Melissa Witcher (Clay), Chuck Stager (Kendra), Peter Stager, Anita Stager (Nathan), William Stager, Cecelia Stager, Nicholas Stager, Kenneth Stager, and “the other daughter” Jean Heslip (Bruce).

Ron is also survived by his two brothers, Leo Stager (Joyce) and James Stager (Mary Lou); his sister, Jacqueline Stager (Robert); along with countless cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was a proud Poppy to Samantha (Reid), Ashley (Bradley), Maddie, Devon, Kiser, Andrew, Sassy, Joshua, Cameron, Haden, Gabriel, Warren, Adam, Logan, and one precious grandchild on the way Athena; as well as seven great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy.

Ron lived his life in steadfast service to others—first and foremost to his wife and family, and then to his church community. His ministry as a Deacon was marked by humility, compassion, and joy. He never turned down an opportunity to baptize, especially cherishing the honor of baptizing babies. His parish family will remember him for his warmth, humor, and the way his homilies spoke personally to every heart in the pews.

Ron’s faith, love, and laughter touched all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by the countless lives he blessed through his service, friendship, and unwavering devotion to God, family, and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home, North Little Rock, on Thursday, November 20th, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., with the Rosary to follow. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 21st, at 4:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Little Rock.

If you wish to honor Deacon Ron Stager’s memory, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to:

Alzheimer’s Arkansas

201 Markham Center Dr.

Little Rock, AR 72205, https://www.alzark.org

Southern Hearts Animal Rescue

13616 Mars Hill Road

Bauxite, AR 72011

https://www.shrescue.org southernheartsrescue@gmail.com