Ronald David "Ron" Brim, Sr., age 75 years, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Born on January 6, 1951, in Kansas City, Missouri, to John Thomas Brim and Bessie Emaline (Green) Brim, Ron was known for his love for his family especially his grandkids, his knowledge about everything and anything in the world, his witty comments which made everyone laugh around him and his laugh was infectious and resonated with all who knew him.

After high school, Ron dedicated himself to the love of his life, Melba Louise (Hatley) Brim, whom he cherished as his wife for over 49 years until her passing on June 21, 2017. His time spent with family was precious. Embracing his Cherokee heritage as a believer in "The Great Spirit," Ron appreciated the connection between life and nature. This philosophy guided him throughout his life. He passed this philosophy down to his children and grandkids. He cherished mother nature and longed for the outdoors. He found joy in going night fishing and day fishing for catfish and other fish with his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. These moments will be fondly remembered by those he loved. He and his wife had land and a vacation home right off Lake Ozark. They would often take their kids and grandkids there to spend weeks, sometimes months at a time connecting to nature with no television, just family and mother nature only.

In addition to fishing, Ron had a keen interest in reading the newspaper, primarily for its crosswords. Boy was he good at crosswords! He would fly through crossword puzzle books completing most in a day or two with only using a pen! He would finish the crossword puzzle posted in the newspaper before he would finish his breakfast! He also had a love for motorcycles, particularly Hondas, which showcased his adventurous spirit. He taught his family how to ride also. He loved riding down a stretch of road feeling the wind of The Great Spirit touch his face. A self-taught guitar enthusiast, Ron challenged himself to learn to play the instrument right-handed, even though he himself was left-handed - a testament to his determination and dedication. He loved playing the guitar for his wife and his family. Every family gathering, he would take out his guitar and play numerous songs for his family.

Throughout his career, Ron dedicated himself to the Kansas City School District, where he worked diligently to rise to the position of building manager before retiring in 2012. His career was marked not only by his professional accomplishments but also by the respect he garnered from colleagues and the community.

He is survived by his son, Ronald David "Ron" Brim, Jr.; his daughter (daughter-in-law) Elizabeth Joyce Herrera (Kenney); grandchildren, Ryan Johnston, Britney Johnston, Angelica Brim, Shelby Wilkes, Cassie Stock, and Carmen Brim; great-grandchildren, Elaina Johnston, Penelope Johnston, Haylee Golden, Austin Sydney, Jr., Rosalia Peraza, David Peraza, Theodore Stock, Nora Wilkes, and Emilia Wilkes ; and brother, Chris Brim. Ron is preceded in death by his loving wife, Melba Louise (Hatley) Brim; his parents, John Thomas Brim and Bessie Emaline Brim; his daughter, Brenda Louise Brim; and his cherished dog-son, Uncle Butch Leroy. And several siblings and other family members.

Visitation for Ron will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Carson-Speaks Chapel, located at 1501 W Lexington Ave, Independence, MO. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Carson-Speaks Chapel. He will be laid to rest at Mt. Washington Cemetery in Independence, Missouri with interment following the service.

Ronald David "Ron" Brim, Sr. will be deeply missed, but his enduring legacy of love, hugs, and laughter will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.