Ronald “Ronnie” Warren Crow, Sr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at age 89. He loved God, his family, his grandchildren, and golf—probably in that order—and his legacy will long outlive him throughout the Pinehurst community and in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
Ronnie was born in Spartanburg, SC, to Smith Crow and Ethel Belcher Crow. He pursued his education at NC State University, completing a Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering while excelling as a four-year athlete on the basketball team. Serving in the US Army, he was honorably discharged with the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He later attended the Kenan-Flagler Executive Program at UNC Chapel Hill. Following in his father’s footsteps, Ronnie built a long and successful career in the textile industry, holding leadership positions at J.P. Stevens Textile Corporation, TiCaro, Inc., and Spray Cotton Mills, where he ultimately retired.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ronnie found a true passion for golf, not only as a player but as a dedicated volunteer. He became an integral part of volunteer activities at Pinehurst Resort and Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club, where he played a key role in organizing and overseeing volunteers at a number of major events. He chaired the North-South Amateur for over 15 years and held leadership positions in three U.S. Open Golf Championships, along with the Women’s U.S. Open. He served as the Chairman of the 2008 U.S. Men’s Amateur. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored as Chairman Emeritus for the 2024 U.S. Open. His love for the sport and his commitment to its growth left a lasting impact on the Pinehurst golf community.
Beyond golf, Ronnie was devoted to his faith and his community. He was actively involved in First Baptist Church Greensboro, Leaksville United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church Southern Pines. His leadership extended into civic life as well, serving as a Rotary Club member and receiving the Paul Harris Fellow Award for his service. After moving to Penick Village, he continued his legacy of leadership as Vice President of the Residents’ Association, always striving to make a difference in the lives of those around him.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Martha Bone Crow, as well as his siblings: Alma Stroud, Elizabeth Woods, Margaret Risch, Marvin Crow, Smith “Buddy” Crow, Jr., Helen Wilson, Virginia Brown, and Talmadge Crow. He is survived by his two sons, Warren (Mark) and David (Lisa), and his grandchildren, Lauten (Lindsay), Jacob, Maggie, and Emily (HB). He is also survived by his loving companion of recent years, Betsy Waters.
The family will hold a visitation on Thursday, March 20, 6pm -8pm, at Boles Funeral Home located at 425 W. Pennsylvania Ave, Southern Pines, NC. The memorial service will be on Friday, March 21, 2pm, at First Baptist Church Southern Pines located at 200 East New York Ave., Southern Pines, NC.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to First Tee of the Sandhills at 135 West Vermont Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 or the First Baptist Church Southern Pines General Fund at 200 East New York Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387. There is no better way to honor Ronnie’s memory than to help instill his love of golf into many generations of young golfers to come and/or support the ministries of his church.
Online condolences can be made to www.bolesfuneralhome.com
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.
