Ronald Merlin McCarty

Ronald Merlin McCarty passed away on May 24, 2026, in Independence, Missouri. Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 13, 2026 at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 409 N. Liberty St., Independence, MO 64050. He was born on September 10, 1935, in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Albert Merlin McCarty and Laura Lucille Howard McCarty. Ronald is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Shirley Ann Jefferson McCarty; his sister, Linda Kay McCarty Paxton; and the loving memory of his brother, Thomas Joseph McCarty, and sister-in-law, Vicky Diane Landford McCarty, who preceded him in death.

Ronald and Shirley were blessed with two sons, Ronald Merlyn Il (Vickie Jackson) and John Albert (Beth Belton). Their family grew to include three grandchildren: Heather Amber McCarty Herdman (Tyler), Heidi Ashlynn McCarty Rieck (Joshua), and Patrick La McCarty. Heather and Tyler further blessed the family with a daughter, Arya Anne Renee Herdman.

In 2023, two step-grandsons joined the family circle, Troy Alan Jackson (Brandi Lynn) and Cody Daniel Jackson. Troy and Brandi blessed the family with a son, Mason Jackson.

Others completing the family circle include Den Khouth McCarty and Kobe Moore, Patrick's mother and half-brother; three nephews, Bradley Dean Paxton (Carolyn There'se Buttrick), Jason Lee Paxton, who preceded him in death, and Shaun McCarty; and two nieces, Sara McCarty Reed (Elijah) and Julie McCarty Langfield (Matt).

Ronald was a compassionate and kind man who loved his family deeply and was always supportive of his family, friends, and country. He served eleven years on active duty in the United States Air Force and faithfully delivered Meals on Wheels for several years. In the last few years of his life, he faced the loss of his ability to see and hear, yet these challenges did not keep him from attending church or participating in family and community life. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, the memories he leaves behind bring comfort to those who love him.

A memorial service for Ronald will be held on June 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Trinity Episcopal Church, 409 N. Liberty Street, Independence, Missouri 64050.

Memorial contributions in Ronald's memory may be made to the Independence Animal Shelter, 21001 E, Highway 78, Independence, Missouri 64057.

Guests are invited to wear shades of yellow in honor of Ronald, as it was his favorite color.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900)