Ronald Paul Hudspeth
March 11, 1940 – May 21, 2025

Ronald Paul Hudspeth was born in Bowie, Texas, to Paul Cleve and Hope Marie Perry Hudspeth. A devoted Christ follower, husband, father, grandfather, and hospital administrator, Ron lived a life marked by faith, service, and generosity.

Ron attended Hardin-Simmons University, initially majoring in business before switching to a Bible degree. He briefly pastored a church, but ultimately returned to business, discovering his calling in healthcare administration. While in Abilene, he met Mary Louise Moreland, a nursing student. Their courtship blossomed at the local hospital, where Ron worked in nearly every department—from orderly to pharmacy to X-ray—eventually learning the foundations of hospital management under mentors Mr. Collier and Boone Powell.

Ron and Mary married on June 3, 1961, in Graham, Texas, and moved into married student housing while continuing their studies. He alternated semesters between work and school to support their growing family, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Business in 1967.

Ron began his healthcare administrative career in Crockett, Texas, becoming the youngest hospital administrator in the state. In 1972, he accepted the role of administrator at Ennis Municipal Hospital. Ennis became home for the Hudspeth family, and Ron and Mary joined Tabernacle Baptist Church, where they were active members for over five decades.

While raising his children, Ron earned his MBA from Texas A&M-Commerce through night and weekend classes. In Ennis, he worked closely with longtime assistant Helen Vrzalik, whom he credited for much of his success. His relationship with Boone Powell resurfaced when Baylor University Medical Center acquired Ennis hospital in 1980. Ron became Executive Director of Baylor Medical Center at Ennis and was later promoted to Vice President over all Baylor affiliate hospitals. He ended his distinguished career as President of Baylor Medical Center Waxahachie, retiring in 2004.

Ron was deeply invested in his community—serving at church, participating in local organizations like SOKOL (where he even competed in gymnastics), and supporting countless local initiatives and ministries. He was known for his quiet generosity, often tipping the full bill and writing "Jesus cares" on the check, donating to Angel Trees, Theater Rocks, Salvation Army, and Union Gospel Mission.

Mary's death in 2000 after a battle with cancer was devastating. Ron often said the "three little faces who greeted me every day saying 'Grandad!' were a gift from God." Retirement ushered in his favorite role: Grandad. He was his grandchildren's biggest fan—attending games, concerts, recitals, and being the go-to for forgotten homework, orthodontist appointments, and surprise Sonic drinks. He delighted in slipping them "walking around money" before vacations. In 2023, he proudly officiated his grandson Austin's wedding.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 39 years, Mary Hudspeth; his son, Steven Hudspeth; and his sister, Marjorie Hudspeth Ayers. He is survived by his daughter, Debra Hudspeth Hinson, and her husband, Mark Hinson; grandchildren Austin Elliott Hinson and wife Sarah Jane of Round Rock, Ava Nicole Hinson of Dallas, and Lauren Michelle Hinson of Ennis.

Ron Hudspeth was a man of faith, a leader in healthcare, and a loving, generous family man. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, excellence, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 beginning at 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary of Ennis.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis with Rev. Zach Crook officiating.

Submitted by family