Ronald Wesley DeLorey

RONALD WESLEY DeLOREY, 71, passed away Thursday, May 29, 2025 in his home.

A native of Sumter, SC, Ron was a son of the late William and Emmie Lee Hudson DeLorey. He grew up in Sumter and Orangeburg. He moved to Aiken in 1995 and worked at the Savannah River Site until he retired in 2023.

Ron was known for his infectious smile and his unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand. He had a passion for riding his Harley and enjoyed spending time fishing. A member of the CSRA Shag Club, he loved to dance and fully embraced the joy of life.

As a devoted Christian, Ron attended Talatha Baptist Church, where he found community and fellowship.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Cynthia Smoak, and his former wife of 32 years, Gail Smith, both of Greenville, SC. He will also be missed by his girlfriend, Mary Palacio, of Grovetown, SC. Other survivors include his cousins, Ben Strange (Chapin, SC), Charles Strange (Easley, SC), and Brenda Balentine (Blythewood, SC). Ron was preceded in death by his brother, Alex “Quacky” DeLorey, and his parents.

A Memorial Service to honor Ron's life will take place on Thursday morning, June 5th at 11 o’clock at Talatha Baptist Church, officiated by The Rev. Jordan Bird.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org), in support of those affected by the illness, in light of Ron’s mother's battle with dementia.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC