Ronald Lockwood Race

Ronald "Ron" Lockwood Race, aged 80, of Berwyn, PA, passed away peacefully at his home on April 2, 2024 after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia. He was lovingly surrounded by his longtime partner, Linda Walters and three daughters, Sarah (Race) Ryan, Lauren Race, and Julia Race.

Throughout his life, Ron touched the lives of all who knew him as a beloved father, grandfather, brother, partner, and friend. Those who were lucky enough benefited from the generosity, compassion and love that he shared widely.

Ron was born on May 21,1943 at Fort Snelling, Minneapolis to his parents, Alvin Race and Dorothy (Stanert) Race. Later, their family grew and he became the older brother of Karen Race. The family then moved back to the Delaware County area, returning to a place where the Races had deep ties. Ron grew up in Drexel Hill, where he graduated from Upper Darby High School. During this time he developed deeply cherished, life-long friendships ( "the Kwamis," as they dubbed themselves) with whom he continued to stay in touch until his passing.

After graduating high school, Ron enrolled at Gettysburg College (class of 1965) where he played soccer and joined the ROTC program. Following college, Ron enlisted in the Army as a First Lieutenant. On November 17, 1966 he embarked on a year-long tour of duty during the Vietnam War where he was stationed in Thailand, an experience that affected him greatly. Upon his return, Ron attended The University of Virginia, Darden Graduate School of Business, graduating in 1974. Ron went on to a successful 40-year career in commercial real estate, working for several companies, including The Rouse Company, Ikon and Americsource Bergen. He retired in 2014.

Ron married Susan (Woodruff) Race in 1981 and together they raised their young family in Radnor, PA. He was the extremely proud father of three daughters Sarah, Lauren and Julia, whose lives and careers he joyfully mentored. Later in his life, Ron met Linda Walters, his partner and companion of 20 years. Together they traveled, spent time with family and built a wonderful and supportive community of friends and extended family.

Ron was a man of great faith, and his service at Wayne Presbyterian Church for over 30 years was central to his life. There he served as an elder, Chair of the Stewardship Committee, and as a member of countless other committees. He recently involved himself deeply in the mission originating at WPC in Southwest Philadelphia known as The Common Place, where he served on the Board of Trustees.

Ron's vibrancy, generosity, sense of humor and huge heart endeared him to many. He loved to learn from those around him, and strongly believed you're never too old to be creative, learn a new skill or to find joy and fulfillment in life. He loved all types of music and was a dedicated guitar player, avid reader and follower of all Philadelphia sports teams. He cherished time spent with his three daughters and two granddaughters Abigail Campbell Ryan and Josephine Race Ryan, socializing with his friends, serving God, and sharing his infectious laugh and smile with anyone who was lucky enough to be in his presence.

A Memorial Service will be held at Wayne Presbyterian Church, 125 East Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA on April 20, at 11 AM. For those unable to attend, a live stream and recording will be available by searching "Wayne Presbyterian Church" on YouTube. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to The Common Place, 5736 Chester Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143.