As a young boy, Ronald loved catching rattlesnakes, skipping rocks across ponds, helping his dad build houses and working around the farm. After attending the University of Georgia, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1963. Upon completion of his military service and degree from Georgia State University, he began a long career with the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA).
Ronald is remembered with fondness for his talents of winning many jitter bug dance contests, acrylic painting and computer skills. He excelled at telling long stories of the past. Cooking was his hobby and passion and was greatly enjoyed by all of his family and friends.
Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Col. Ray Howard Rachels and sister-in- law Nancy Smith Rachels. He is survived by his son Nathan Rachels, Grandchildren: Jackson Rachels, Taylor Rachels and Payton Rachels, younger brother Alan Rachels (Dottie Howell Rachels), Nieces: Heather Rachels, Sheila Rachels Pearson (Jim Pearson), Great Nieces: Emily Pearson and Rachel Pearson.
Ronald received a life-saving heart transplant on July 20, 2000, which extended his life over 24 years. His cause of death was from natural causes and not heart related. Ronald was a private man and asked to be cremated and expressed his wishes not to have a celebration of life. To honor him, please prepare your favorite meal to enjoy with family and friends, and remember him by sharing your own special memories of his life.
Special thanks to Caroline Wright, Sophia Karega and Susan Giathi.
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