Ronald Eugene Short

DATELINE: GROVER, NORTH CAROLINA

Ronald "Eugene" Short

Ronald "Eugene" Short, age 61, of Grover, North Carolina, peacefully returned to his eternal home on August 7, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, North Carolina. Born on January 19, 1964, in Cleveland County, he was the beloved son of the late Johnny Ray and Shirley Perry Short. Ronald is now reunited with his son, Ronald Eugene Short Jr., and other cherished family members. Affectionately known as “Jesus Man” to those whose lives he touched, Ronald devoted himself to sharing the gospel and the love of Christ. His heart overflowed with passion for evangelism, and he carried this mission into every interaction, gracefully spreading joy and hope wherever he went. He briefly shared his message of faith with listeners at WKMT and found immense fulfillment in teaching others about his Savior. A skilled auto mechanic, Ronald also worked in textiles, but his true calling was always found in his work for God. Outside of his professional life, he embraced the outdoors with an equal passion—as an avid fisherman and a dedicated gardener, nurturing his plants to yield vibrant vegetables that he generously shared with friends, neighbors, and sometimes even strangers. His garden was not just a source of food, but also a canvas for conversations about faith and fellowship. A man of simple pleasures, Ronald took delight in his hat collection, particularly his favorite fedora, and mastered the game of checkers—becoming a formidable opponent with only one loss remembered in his family’s recounting of his games. His adventurous spirit shone through his volunteer work at NASCAR races, where he contributed his time and effort to benefit the Shriner’s Children Hospital, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to giving back. Above all, Ronald’s greatest joy came from his family. Together with his devoted wife Donna, his "Dream Girl", he embraced the role of husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend with unmatched dedication. He offered his time, love, and support abundantly, truly embodying the spirit of generosity and care that defined his life. Ronald Eugene Short leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His warm heart and radiant smile will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit will always live on in the cherished memories and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey.

SURVIVORS: Devoted wife of 33 years: Donna Cantrell Short

Children: April Lynn, Rhonda Diane, Joseph Lee, Benjamin Lee, Marilyn Margaret, Wesley Malcolm, Sabrina Irene, Cecily Rose and many more beloved children whom Ronald and Donna raised

Siblings: Billy Joe Short (Sally), Violet Lavonne Lattimore (Ronnie), Betty Jane Wright (Roger), and Mary Frances Towery (Pete)

Many loving grandchildren and 1 great grandchild

FUNERAL SERVICE: A graveside service officiated by Reverend Dan Collins will be held at a later date and announced by Harris Funeral Home

VISITATION: Monday, August 11, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Harris Funeral Home

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA