Ronald Jerry Huff

Ronald was born on October 12, 1940, to Haydee Williams (later Street) and William Huff and was raised in the Westlake Terrace Homes neighborhood on Youngstown's north side. As a child, Ronald spent many days at the West Federal Street Y and the Hagstrom House on Lexington Street.

Ronald was a proud graduate of The Rayen High School, Class of 1958. While in high school, Ronald was employed by the City of Youngstown Parks & Recreation Department, becoming one of the first Black lifeguards to help integrate the Northside Swimming Pool in the City. After graduation, Ronald enlisted in the United States Army, where he served honorably. While serving in the Army, Ronald developed a lifelong love of tennis and skiing while stationed in Germany.

In 1973, Ronald married Denise Horad (Johnson) of Washington D.C. During their eleven-year marriage, they had two children, Erika K. Huff and Jonathan M. Huff. Ronald would often say that one of his greatest joys was being a parent.

Ronald was employed with General Motors Corporation (Lordstown Assembly Plant) until his entrepreneurial spirit led him to branch out on his own, starting a Janitorial Supply Company. He ran this company until he finally took a position with the City of Youngstown. Ronald worked in the Clerk of Courts office as a Deputy Clerk until his retirement in 2002.

Ronald was an avid golfer, runner, and lover of the arts. In retirement, he continued to attend Jazz Festivals around the Tampa/Clearwater/St. Petersburg area. Ronald faithfully enjoyed cheering on his San Francisco 49ers, and he loved discussing football with his son. Ronald also loved sailing, which led him to volunteer at the Clearwater Sailing Center. Ronald remained active by working part-time at the Greater Palm Harbor YMCA.

In his later years, Ronald cherished his two granddaughters, Corinne and Phoenix. He looked forward to hearing about their hobbies and seeing pictures of their various activities, which he would often brag about. Spending time with his close community of friends, working in the fitness center at the YMCA, and taking morning walks at the causeway with his dear friend Stan brought Ronald great joy during his final years.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, William Huff (Beatrice) and Haydee (Charles Street), and his daughter Erika K. Huff.

Ronald is survived by his son, Jonathan M. Huff (Roshay); his sister, Cheri Porterfield; his brother, Brian Huff; and his granddaughters, Corinne Huff and Phoenix Huff. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of extended family and dear friends.

The family will honor Ronald’s wishes, and a private memorial gathering for close family and friends will be held at a later date, when his ashes will be laid to rest.

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