Obituary of Ronald Clare Meredith

Ronald Clare Meredith - better known as “Corn” - passed away peacefully on the morning of May 1, 2026, surrounded by family in the farmhouse he built with his own two hands.

Born in Chatham on February 6, 1934, he lived 92 strong, resilient years. Since Christmas 2025, Ron had been bravely facing a palliative diagnosis of congestive heart failure. He spent his final months at home on the farm, as he wished, being cared for and deeply loved by his devoted and loyal wife of 58 years, Lorraine (Kelly) Meredith.

Above all, Ron was a family man. He was the son of Wilfred and Ruth (Vinson) Meredith, and a devoted lifelong father to David Meredith, Beth Gilhuly, and Colleen (Steve) Antunes. He was a very proud grandfather to Morgan (Brandon) Ireland, Julia Hughson, and Miguel and Lucas Antunes, as well as a soon-to-be great-grandfather to his first great-grandson, expected this month.

Ron spent his life doing what he loved - farming. He earned the nickname “Corn” after becoming known as the “Corn King” of the area among his fellow farmers. In addition to farming, he also worked a 30-year career as an oil truck driver for Harold Marcus, something he was very proud of. When he was not on the road, farming, or spending time with his family, Ron could be found watching a baseball game or enjoying the horse races. He spent countless Sundays with friends and family at the Dresden Raceway and loved attending The Little Brown Jug each September with his children. Ron also played hockey and baseball throughout his life, where he made many lifelong friends.

In addition to being a family man, Ron was a simple man. He loved living a slow life, often reminding his family to “take your time” or asking, “what’s your rush?” They are forever grateful for his constant reminders to appreciate the simple pleasures in life - whether in the little moments or really in any moment involving chocolate. Like any Meredith boy, Ron had a sweet tooth. He grew up loving the chocolate cake his mother made for him, and until his very last day, he would never turn down a piece of pie - especially if shared with his brother Edgar - or a piece of black licorice. He was known to always have a toothpick in his mouth and a can of Coke in his hand.

Ron had fond memories of his childhood, which he spent on the family farm with his six brothers and one sister. He loved playing euchre and baseball with his siblings. Ron is survived by his brothers Bob (Judy) Meredith, Edgar Meredith, and Gordon (Linda) Meredith; sisters-in-law Karen Meredith, Joyce Meredith, and Veronica (Jim) Sewell; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Doug (Marylou) Meredith, Bill Meredith, and Murray Meredith, and his sister Mary Meredith. He was also predeceased by his brother-in-law Jimmy Kelly, and his mother- and father-in-law, Audrey and Glen Kelly.

Visitation will be held at Badder & Robinson Funeral Home in Bothwell on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with a memorial service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Four Counties Health Services in appreciation of their outstanding care. The family also extends sincere thanks to all of the PSWs (especially Kristie Lee), nurses, and healthcare professionals who helped Ron remain comfortable at home during his final days surrounded by family.

Online condolences may be left at www.badderfuneralhome.com.