Ronald Parent

Ronald P. Parent, 76, of East Templeton, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in the comfort of his home, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, joy, and the countless lives he touched.

Born in Cambridge on February 4, 1949, Ron was the cherished son of the late Emile P. and Rita (Madore) Parent. A proud 1967 graduate of St. Patrick's School in Watertown, Ron carried his strong work ethic and unwavering loyalty into every chapter of his life. He dedicated 25 years as a timekeeper for the United States Postal Service before continuing another 25 years with Simplex Time Recorder/Tyco-always known for his reliability and warm presence.

For the last 25 years, Ron poured his heart into his disc jockey company AMC Entertainment, where he found true joy. Whether spinning music as a DJ for the Gardner Relay for Life or helping families celebrate weddings and life's most meaningful milestones, Ron had a gift for bringing people together. His music, his energy, and his kind smile created memories that will be treasured forever. The DJ never left his heart as he was always sure to have music playing wherever he was.

Ron proudly served his country in the Massachusetts Army National Guard from 1970 to 1976, embodying honor, humility, and commitment.

In his younger years, Ron embraced life with an active spirit-jogging, playing racquetball, and always seeking ways to keep moving. Yet the heart of his world was his family. Time spent with them was his greatest joy, and he cherished every laugh, every gathering, and every moment shared.

He was always able to light up a room with his young spirit and jovial personality. He was very quick to make friends with pretty much anyone that he met. He was always there to help them out however he could. His wife Joni was the light of his life, and he made sure she knew it. Whether that was taking her on trips, cooking her special meals, bringing her a coffee, or just being there to ask how her day was. Ron truly was a selfless man.

Ron was also an avid sports enthusiast. So, when he did have a little free time, you could probably find him voicing his support while watching the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins.

Ron is survived by his wife, Joni (Stone) Parent of East Templeton; two children, Keith Parent and his wife Lori of Waltham, and Tracy Disley and her husband Kenneth of Gilford, NH; his two stepsons, Clint Stinnett of Templeton and Chad Stinnett of Cambridge; five grandchildren, Amelie Morrissey, Michael and Daniel Parent, and Summer and Sophia Stinnett; as well as many cousins.

Calling Hours will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA. Funeral Services will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial in Greenlawn Cemetery, Bridge Street, Baldwinville, MA, will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society Attn: Relay for Life of Greater Gardner- 6AYVG9, PO Box 5003, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or on their website at (www.cancer.org). Please reference in memory of Ronald P. Parent.