Ronnie Kay Efurd passed away at the age of 79 years on April 12, 2023 in Beggs, Oklahoma. He was born on October 2, 1943 to Jack Johnson and Beulah Mae Conaway Efurd in Mansfield, Arkansas.
Ron enlisted in the US Navy in 1964, where he served his country during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1968. Ron enjoyed participating in the annual USS Ogden LPD-5 Reunion Association, and for a time served as president of the association. Ron was a MM2 Machinist Mate 2nd Class. He served with distinction and was awarded the Vietnam Campaign Medal with a Silver Star, National Defense Medal and the Navy Good Conduct Medal.
Ron was Master Mason of the Reid Lodge #163 in Mansfield, Arkansas and received his 32nd degree at the Scottish Rite Masonic Lodge in Austin, Texas. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Beggs, Oklahoma.
Ron graduated from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Ron was retired, but had previously taught at Preston Public Schools.
Ron is survived by his wife, Arlene Factor Efurd, his daughter Angela Rae Efurd, his dear friend David Pless all of Beggs and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Beulah Efurd, and brothers Bill Efurd and Connie Efurd.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11 A.M. at McClendon-Winters Funeral Home at 303 E. 7th St., Okmulgee, OK. Immediately following the memorial service, a graveside service with military honors will be observed at the Okmulgee Cemetery. After the services, a meal and time of sharing will be held at 1:00 P.M. at the Claude Cox Omniplex (The Dome) located at 2950 Warrior Rd, Okmulgee, OK.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in memory of Ron to the USS Ogden LPD-5 Reunion Association. These funds will be used to establish a scholarship in Ron’s name. Please direct donations to: Attn: In Memory of Ronnie Efurd, CDR Mark Stephens, 297 Drehersville Rd., Orwigsburg, PA 17961.
Arrangements and cremation services have been entrusted to the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on Ron‘s Tribute Page of our website. www.mcclendon-winters.com
