Ronnie Lewis Varnado Jr.

Ronnie L Varnado Jr., born March 13, 1947, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana passed away on February 28, 2023, in Corpus Christi, Texas. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and a uniquely stubborn strength.

To know Ronnie was to understand how deeply and vocally he was in love with his wife, Rosie Varnado. His favorite place was by her side, sharing an unbreakable bond with her since their marriage on June 3rd, 1967. He spoke with reverence and pride about the marriage he built with her. And it was with such sweet smugness he would preach to anyone listening “always marry your best friend.”

Ronnie was a family man - a father and grandfather immensely proud of raising successful, happy, strong children. He is survived by his sons, Edward, Ronnie and Mike, and his daughters, Ruth, Allis, Brandy and Mary. He had a very unique relationship - deeply special and real - with each. Ronnie was especially proud of his special bond with his grandsons Ben and Max. His goal - “This time I’m not going to miss anything.” And he didn’t, Izzy and the boys were the light of his life.

His “Dad-ness” bubbled over to all of his kid’s friends, who he loved like his own. It was a special brand of Ronnie wisdom and support he generously doled out to those who touched the Varnado family. He was a beloved uncle, in-law and cousin. He deeply loved his big sister, Laura, and cherished their relationship. And his life was truly rich with so many friends, many whom he rediscovered later in life.

Over the last few years, it meant the world to him having so many people rooting for him. As it became harder and harder for him to live his famous mantra: “Strong like buffalo,” he was comforted by all the prayer and support he received from people across the entire spectrum of his life.

Finally, “the laugh.” To laugh with Ronnie was to build a connection. His laugh was irresistible; you just had to join in his fun. Despite the pain he was in over the last ten years, he never passed up an opportunity to share a laugh with his loved ones. It was completely magical in all the best ways. And situationally, “the laugh” could be prefaced with his signature cheer “Go ‘head!,” and that usually said it all.

Ronnie, Butchie, Dad, Daddy, PawPaw, Uncle Ronnie: He loved eating fried catfish. He loved dancing in the living room. He hated beeps, in general, and the sounds of video games, in specific. He loved keeping stuff with no discernible practical purpose. He loved to hunt and fish. He loved taking long rides. He had a little FOMO and YOLO at the same time.

He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.