Beech Tree News Network

Ronald Burden, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024, at the Medical Center in Bowling Green, KY. Born on May 5, 1948, in Hopkins County, KY, Ronald's life was marked by  dedication to his family, service to his community, and a legacy of kindness.

Ronald was the beloved husband of Joyce Burden, with whom he shared a beautiful journey of fifty-eight and a half years after they united in marriage on October 28, 1965. Together, they built a family that included two devoted children, Tammy Alford (Mark) and Wesley Burden, both of Morgantown, KY. His role as a grandfather to Denishia Morris (Chad) and Jason Gordon, and as a great-grandfather to Averi and Blake Morris, brought him immeasurable joy. Ronald's love extended to his nieces Denise Tarrance (Brian) and Donna Dockery (Scotty), his great-niece Sierra Beck, and great-nephews Jacob Dockery and Trace Tarrance, all of Morgantown, KY, as well as his great-great-nephew Max Beck and several other cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceding him in death were his parents, Elmer "Jim" and Oma Staton Burden, his siblings Judith Moore (George), Rev. Jimmie Burden (Joyce), and Sandy Carroll, his niece Paula Miller, his nephew Timmy Burden, and his great-nephew Nathaniel Gordon.

Ronald was a man of faith and commitment, as evidenced by his membership at Temple Hill General Baptist Church and his involvement with the KY Association of Chiefs of Police. His dedication to public service was further demonstrated through his past membership with the Morgantown Fire Department. Professionally, Ronald began his career as a Butler County Sheriff’s Deputy for Wallace Dockery. In 1986 Ronald started working for the Morgantown Police Department, quickly rising through the ranks to become chief in 1988, a position he held with honor until his retirement in 2008. His commitment to safety and education led him to serve and as a DARE instructor, shaping the lives of many young individuals in his community.

Ronald's interests were a reflection of his warm and creative spirit. He was a skilled woodworker, a hobby that allowed him to craft beautiful pieces and share his artistry with loved ones. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that they will hold dear forever.

Funeral services will be held at the Jones Funeral Chapel Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at 3:00pm with Bro. Rodney Smith officiating. Private burial will be in the Temple Hill General Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 from 10:00am until funeral time at 3:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Temple Hill General Baptist Church Cemetery Fund c/o Rachel Lucas 8876 Brownsville Road Morgantown, KY 42261. Please share any photos, memories, condolences or light a candle in memory of Ronald at www.jonesfuneralchapel.com. Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Ronald Burden.