Ronald Joseph

Melancon

Ronald Joseph Melancon, aka “Sonny” 88, of Poplarville, Mississippi, passed away on November 11, 2026. Born on April 27, 1938, he was the son of the late Belton Moise Melancon and Mary Hilda Melancon. Ronald lived a long life marked by hard work, determination, a love of horses, and a strong will that remained with him throughout his years.

Ronald briefly served in the United States Army before attending Hinds College, where he was a standout track athlete. Construction became his lifelong passion, following in the footsteps of his Father. He continued working until the age of 87 and passed his strong work ethic on to his children. Saturday chore lists and summers spent working in construction were part of growing up with him. He set high expectations and taught his children the value of putting in an honest day’s work.

After spending many years in Louisiana, Ronald’s love of horses and country living drew him to Carriere, Mississippi in the early 1970s where he enjoyed having horses.

In 1984, he moved to Amelia Island, Florida, where he lived until the early 2000s. He then returned to Poplarville, Mississippi, where he made his home for the remainder of his life.

Horses held a special place in Ronald’s life. Many Saturday nights were spent at horse shows, with memories that included trips to state championships.

Ronald enjoyed boxing, cowboy boots, telling stories- especially ones with his Cajun heritage , and making barbecue with his Coca-Cola barbecue sauce. His family will share and remember the everyday details, along with the funny stories he told, to bring smiles to the people who knew him.

Ronald is survived by his partner, Mary Hutto; his three children, Dawn Melancon, Craig Melancon and his wife, Tanji, and Andrea West and her husband, Michael; his brother, Rudy Melancon; and his sister, Mary Ann Casey.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Monique Penton (Brad), Ashley Prewitt (Matthew), Ava Taft, and Zachary Taft; and his six great-grandchildren, Braden, Brody, and Silas Penton, and Job, Rachael Kate, and Ellis Prewitt.

Even at 88, Ronald was still talking about building another home and getting three horses. He remained a man with things he wanted to do and plans for what came next. His family will remember that determination, the lessons he passed along, and the many stories that will keep his memory close.

Services will be at Picayune Funeral Home. Saturday, November 21st. 10-11 am visitation and 11-12 service, followed by graveside prayer and lunch at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Carriere, Ms.