Ronnie L. Rawlings

Ronnie Rawlings

July 3, 1961 – March 14, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ronnie Rawlings, who departed this life peacefully on March 14, 2025, in York, Pennsylvania, at the age of 63. Born on July 3, 1961, in Orange County, Virginia, Ronnie was the beloved son of Jacqueline “Ma” Rawlings and the late Thomas “Pop Pop” Rawlings. In 1965, his family relocated to Danbury, Connecticut, where he grew up and attended Danbury Public Schools, proudly graduating from Danbury High School.

During his high school years, Ronnie met the love of his life, his “sugar bear,” Gloria Priar. Their bond was undeniable, leading to marriage and the blessing of two wonderful children, Ebonie and Ronnie Rawlings jr. Though their paths later took different directions, Ronnie and Gloria remained devoted friends, sharing vacations and life’s special moments together. He also embraced Gloria’s other children, Dezera and Darrell Priar, as his own. The unexpected passing of both Gloria and Dezera left a deep sorrow in his heart.

Ronnie had a deep love for his hometown of Orange, Virginia, and he enjoyed visiting during the summers, always reconnecting with his roots. He shared a very special and unbreakable bond with his sister and best friend, Mary “Pep” Rawlings, and adored his mother, Mrs. Jackie Rawlings. His connection with the two of them was so strong that he eventually followed them to York, Pennsylvania, in the late ’90s. His mother and sister both lovingly cared for him when he became ill until his passing.

Ronnie was known for his huge personality, his big grin, and the joy he brought to every gathering. Always a jokester, he had a gift for making people smile, lighting up any room he entered. He was also famous for giving his close family and friends special nicknames—if you had a nickname from Ronnie, or “Big Dub” as some called him, consider yourself truly special. Those little things, the names he gave and the jokes he shared, are the moments we now hold even closer to our hearts.

Ronnie was self employed doing carpet and wood floor installation. He was a passionate fisher and an avid softball player, known for his incredible throwing arm and powerful hits. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he played on several local teams in the Danbury area, making a name for himself on the field. Ronnie also shared a cherished bond with the Bones family of York, PA, who became like extended family to him.

He is survived by his two children, Ebonie and Ronnie Jr. (Tiffany) of Danbury, CT; his loving mother, Jackie Rawlings, and his devoted sister, Mary Rawlings of York, PA; his brother, James Urquhart of Pittsburgh, PA. He was predeceased by his father, Thomas Lee Rawlings; his sister, Sharon Rawlings Cheeks; his brother, Ricky Lewis; his wife, Gloria Priar; and his special daughter, Dezera Priar.  Ronnie’s legacy lives on through his beloved grandchildren: Artazia & Artez Taft, Jada Priar, Jaivon Priar, and Sharee Priar, all of Danbury, CT. He also leaves behind a special “sister,” Wanda Hall; his favorite uncle, Scottie, and aunt, Esther Scott; as well as many special nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A Celebration of Life Gathering  will be held on Friday, March 21st,from  10:00 am to 11:00am with a service to begin at 11:00am at Mount Pleasant A.M.E. Zion Church, 69 Rowan St, Danbury, CT. A repass will follow shortly after at 2:00 PM at Hatters Park, 7E Hayestown Ave, Danbury, CT.

Sleep in peace Big Double. You will forever be in our hearts, your beloved Ebonie & Ronnie aka Boo-Lynn & Jr. Man

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