Sgt. Ramon D. Southard, 94, of Harmony, N.C., passed away on March 2, 2023, at Gordon Hospice House. Ramon was born on June 19, 1928, to John and Linnie Marsh Southard, in Wilkes County, N.C.
Ramon was preceded in death by his parents, previous wife, Barbara G. Southard, and son, Scott D. Southard, five brothers and one sister.

Ramon is survived by his wife of 23 years, Betty D. Southard; children, Michael Southard (Jennifer), Joy Cox, Delynn Brown, Angela Southard (Scott D. Southard), Barbara Griffin (Roger), Peggy Plyer, Joyce Taylor, Wanda Barnette (Robert), Debbie Cauble (Paul), and Lisa Travis (John); 32 grandchildren; and many great and great-great grandchildren.

Raymon worked as a Punch Press Operator at Acme Metal Slides Corporation and was presented an award for 25 years of service.

Ramon was a veteran of the U.S. Army and Air Force, where he served for nine years. He loved his country and many times said he would do it all over again. He was a man full of joy, a man who loved Jesus. He always had a way of making you laugh. He loved, prayed and cared for his family. One of his favorite things to do was jump in the van, drive to Pigeon Forge and eat those Apple fritters. He called them hush puppies from Applewood Farmhouse. He certainly is a man that will never be forgotten. He was a beloved member of Landmark Church of God, and he leaves behind a large and loving family.

A visitation for Ramon will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at Landmark Church of God. A Celebration of Life will begin at 2 p.m. with pastors Phil Pearson, Jeff Stephens, and Steve Newman officiating. Burial will follow at Iredell Memorial Gardens with Air Force honors.

Pallbearers are Brandon Hastings, David Hastings, Daniel Travis, Luke Barnette, Josh McLain, Dylan McLain, John Southard and George Hennessy.

The family would like to thank Gordon Hospice House for their compassionate care of Ramon, and requests memorials be made to Hospice of Iredell County in his honor.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the Southard family at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is serving the family.