The Reverend Dr. Ronald W. Loftis, Sr.

The Rev. Dr. Ronald W. Loftis, Sr., died in his home on the evening of August 26, 2024. He was 92 years old. A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Dr. Loftis was the son of Guy Olaf Loftis, Sr., and Pauline Layton Loftis, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by all of his siblings and his beloved stepmother, Margaret H. Loftis.

In 1941, the Loftis family moved from Indiana to Fayetteville, North Carolina. Dr. Loftis attended school in Hope Mills and graduated from Hope Mills High School in 1949. While in high school, he met Mary Elizabeth “Libby” Collins who soon became the deepest love of his life. These two high school sweethearts married on April 12, 1952, and remained faithfully in love for 72 years. Together they formed a loving family that draws its strength and character from their powerful examples of love, faith, and grace.

Dr. Loftis is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Loftis; sons Ron Loftis, Jr., and wife Debbie, Michael Loftis and wife Ann; Stephen Loftis and wife Lee; and daughter Lisa Loftis Obermiller. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Wilson (Holly), Benjamin (Amanda), Elizabeth (Justin), Taylor (Maureen), Van (Lauren), Rhys (Elizabeth), Holly, Matthew, and Colin, as well as 14 great-grandchildren. Among the extended family of survivors are numerous nephews and nieces. He loved all of those who are his family. To these and many more, Dr. Loftis will forever be known as “Grandpa.” 

 After marrying his true love, Dr. Loftis withdrew from NC State University to attend to his growing family. He began working as a surveyor and worked with the NC Department of Transportation where he rose to Resident Engineer of the Fayetteville, NC office. While with the State, Dr. Loftis experienced a compelling call to Christian Ministry. He returned to college at Pembroke State University (UNC Pembroke) where he earned his BA. Afterwards, Dr. Loftis attended Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (Wake Forest), earning the degrees of Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministries.

 In 1966, Dr. Loftis began his ministry career as pastor of Wade Baptist Church and later served Clybonville Baptist Church and Lake Lynn Baptist Church. In 1977, both he and his wife were commissioned as Home Missionaries of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), and he became the Director of Christian Social Ministries (Church and Community Ministries) at New South River Baptist Association. In 1985, they moved to Atlanta, GA, to begin working with the SBC Home Mission Board. They later returned to NC where Dr. Loftis became the Director of Missions for Robeson Baptist Association in Lumberton, NC. During his service to Robeson Association, he expanded his ministry to become an adjunct professor of Religion at UNC- Pembroke where he served for more than 20 years. Dr. Loftis “retired” from Robeson Association to become the pastor of Lake Lynn Baptist for the second time where he served until he fully retired from active pastoral ministry. 

Dr. Loftis lived a full life marked by faithfulness and grace, always a servant to his community. As a young man, he joined the National Guard and, later was a 32nd Degree (Scottish Rite) Freemason through the Lebanon Lodge of Hope Mills, NC. He devoted time and energy to students as professor and advisor. He and Lib often offered financial assistance to students who needed a small boost. Throughout their many years together, their home was a respite and refuge to visiting guests and those needing temporary shelter.

 None knew the depth of his devotion, service, and love more than his cherished bride and cohort in life. He was completely committed to loving and caring for his “Libby.” Theirs is a love story for eternity. His children, grandchildren, and the larger community have witnessed in him an example of true and unyielding strength and passion. He leaves a rare legacy of life lessons that he both lived and taught.

 A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, September 2, 2024, at First Baptist Church on Anderson Street in Fayetteville, NC. The family will receive friends immediately after the service in Williamson Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Fayetteville or to a charity of one’s choice.

 Pinecrest Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.