Dr. Ronald Dew, 95 , passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at his home in Columbia, South Carolina.
Ron was born October 21, 1927 in Beckley, West Virginia to James Christopher Dew and Hallie Stover Dew. He attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Marshall University but left college early to attend the Emory University School of Medicine. While in Atlanta, he met the love of his life, Winnie Dunnavant, and they married in 1952. Ron graduated from Emory in 1953 and went to Fitzsimmons Army Hospital in Aurora, Colorado where he completed his medical internship. He then served in the Army in Korea as a combat medic and also served in Japan. Upon returning to the states, Ron completed his OB-GYN residency at Columbia Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. In 1959 he entered private practice with Black, Bryan, Williamson, Dew and Blair, which later became OB-GYN Associates. Over his 40 plus years of practice, Ron delivered over 4,000 babies.
Not only was Ron an outstanding physician, he was most proud of being a fine Christian man. He and his family were members of First Baptist Church and then Kathwood Baptist Church. He served both churches as a deacon, Sunday School teacher and held many leadership position. Ron taught his children to love the lord by the example he set of his belief in God and how he lived his life. Ron and Winnie now attend Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
Ron was a former member of the Forest Acres Rotary Club, Forest Lake Club, Columbia Medical Society, a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and served for many years on the Palmetto Health Baptist Board of Trustees.
Known as "Papa" to his grandchildren, he was known for his sense of humor, infectious laugh (especially when watching Seinfeld) and great big "bear hugs" where he would never let go. One of his favorite places to spend time was their mountain house in Brevard, North Carolina. Ron was also a talented watercolor artist, cartoonist and writer. He wrote his autobiography, "Brushed by Angels' Wings" that he published in 1993.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Winnie, his children Laura Dew Smith (Chip), Beth Dew McMullan (Cam), and Scott Dew. Grandchildren- Sarah Smith, Mills Smith (Hannah), Parrish Smith (Kelsey), Emily McMullan, Becca McMullan Eure (Josh), Chandler Dew, and Ellison Dew and Great Granddaughter Amelia Smith. Nephews- Glen LaForce (Linda) and Hank LaForce (Amy). Ron is preceded by his son, Chris Dew.
A special thanks to Hearts of Hospice in Columbia, South Carolina and Nurse Sue and Christine for taking such exceptional care of him in his final days.
The Memorial Service for Dr. Dew will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, November 28, 2022, at Eastminster Presbyterian Church. The family will greet friends in the Adult Reception Room of the church immediately following the service. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC, 29205, The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 112089, Charlotte, N.C. 28220, or the charity of one's choice.