Ronald Edward Brackett, a devoted husband and father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, faithful Christian, patriot, and United States Army veteran, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2026. He lived a life defined by faith, service, integrity, and a deep devotion to his family and country.

Ron was born in Rockmart, Georgia, on September 23, 1940, and was raised with strong Christian values that remained at the core of who he was throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Rockmart, where he had been part of the church family since childhood.

Ron attended Georgia Military College (GMC) in Milledgeville, Georgia, where he developed the discipline, leadership, and sense of duty that would guide him for years. He later served his country honorably in the United States Army as a member of the 101st Airborne Division, proudly known as the “Screaming Eagles.” His military service was a meaningful source of pride throughout his life and reflected his deep and enduring love for his country.

Ron loved his country deeply and was a proud and steadfast patriot. His respect for the United States, its flag, and those who served was deeply personal to him. The values of duty, loyalty, service, and love of country that were strengthened during his military years remained an important part of the man he was for the rest of his life.

Above all else, Ron was a family man. He was a loving and devoted husband to Linda Caldwell Brackett, whom he met during his years at GMC while she was a student at Georgia State College for Women (GSCW). Linda was the great love of his life, and he looked forward to the day when they would be reunited in heaven.

Ron was the proud father of three daughters: Lori Crabtree (Ronnie), Becky Parker (Jim), and Cindy Maxey (Vic). He cherished his daughters, and he was blessed with three sons-in-law who loved and respected him deeply.

One of Ron’s greatest joys was being “Daddy Ron” to his four grandsons: David Crabtree (Stephanie), Kyle Crabtree, James Parker, and William Parker. He also had the joy of welcoming two great-grandchildren, Tucker Crabtree and Ella Rena Crabtree, the children of David and Stephanie. He took tremendous pride in his family and loved keeping up with what was happening in each of their lives.

Ron is also survived by his sister, Janice Brackett Terry, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floy and Homer Brackett, and his beloved wife, Linda Caldwell Brackett.

The family is especially grateful for Daddy’s devoted caregivers and hospice nurses, whose kindness, patience, and companionship brought him comfort and dignity throughout his final chapter. Nicole Billing, Shanell Simmons, Shanya Smiley, Katina Kenty, Josie Spivey, Lacie Thomas, and the many other special people who lovingly cared for him became much more than caregivers—they became a cherished part of his circle of care and an extension of our family.

Professionally, Ron served as City Manager of his hometown of Rockmart before continuing his career in chemical sales. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to build his own successful business, where clients often became lifelong friends. He liked to joke that his workdays were mainly opportunities to “go visit” his friends—a fitting reflection of the way he approached both business and life. Ron also served on the Rockmart City Council.

For many years, the Silver Comet Trail was an important part of Ron’s daily life. A dedicated walker, he logged countless miles there, enjoying the familiar routine of seeing old friends and making new ones along the way. His daily walks and the friendships he formed with fellow walkers brought him great joy.

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather on Saturday, September 26, at Alvis Miller and Son Funeral Home in Rockmart, Georgia, to remember Ron and celebrate his life. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, the family will share a quiet, private graveside ceremony together.

Ron will be remembered as a kind, strong, and principled man with a generous heart—a man who showed up, listened closely, loved faithfully, and cared deeply. He was proud of his family, proud of his hometown, proud of his military service, and proud to be an American.

His presence will be missed beyond measure, but the values he lived by and the love he gave so freely will continue through his daughters, sons-in-law, grandsons, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives were made better by knowing him.

His family takes comfort in knowing that his earthly journey is complete, his faith has become sight, and he is once again with Linda, the love of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Ron’s memory to consider a gift to First Baptist Church of Rockmart or to the City of Rockmart to go toward the continued beautification of the Silver Comet Trail in Rockmart, two places that were meaningful to him and the community he called home.

Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family of Ronald Edward Brackett.