Mr. Ronald James Beach, Jr., 63, of Schuyler, NY, affectionately known as “Big Bear,” passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Wynn Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

     Born in Utica on January 9, 1962, he was the son of Ronald James, Sr., and Kathleen (Sullivan) Beach. Ronald was raised in Leonardsville, graduated from Mt. Markham High School and attended auctioneer school. On September 12, 1998, he married Ruby C. Bushey at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Utica.

     Ronald dedicated 35 years as a Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician at Hanger Clinic in Marcy until his retirement. A generous and compassionate man, he was grounded in his Catholic faith and tirelessly served his community. His roles included Herkimer County Legislator, Schuyler Volunteer Fire Company member, Santa for the Town of Schuyler, Boy Scout leader in Deerfield, and, most recently, served as Schuyler Town Supervisor. He was also a past member of the Leonardsville Volunteer Fire Department and actively involved in Town of Brookfield politics. For over 20 years, he supported the Kelberman Center in Utica, participating in Autism Walks and serving as auctioneer during the Boonville Autism Walk to give back to an organization that has provided vital support to his son Patrick.

     Ronald's greatest source of joy was his family, especially his sons, Kyle and Patrick. They were the light of his life, and he was deeply committed to supporting them in every way possible. He was a steadfast presence at every soccer game, cross-country meet, and track meet, offering encouragement from the sidelines. He always celebrated their successes with heartfelt joy and was ever ready with thoughtful advice and a listening ear. Ronald’s unwavering dedication to his family, combined with his devotion to his community, left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

     Ronald is survived by his beloved wife, Ruby; two cherished sons, Kyle Beach and Patrick Beach; his parents, Ronald and Kathleen Beach; two sisters, Carolyn (Jim) Pritchard and Kelly Walton; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Patricia (Lawson) Fowble, Paul Bushey, Peter (Lori) Bushey, Robert (Kate) Bushey, David (Laurie) Bushey, Joseph (Doreen) Bushey, Daniel (Rosalie) Bushey, James (Jackie) Bushey, Jerry (Kelly) Bushey, Matthew Bushey, Irene (Jamie) Fazio and Mary (Joseph) Scalise, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins whom he loved dearly. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Gerald and Irene Bushey.

     Family and friends are invited to his funeral Mass on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Historic Old St. John’s Church, John St., Utica. He will be laid to rest at West Schuyler Cemetery in Schuyler. Visitation is on Friday, November 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kelberman Center, 2513 Sunset Ave., Utica, NY 13502 (www.kelberman.org).