Ronald Philip Vilord

On Friday, August 29, 2025, Ronald Philip Vilord was called to be with his Savior, passing at his home in Fairhope surrounded by family, just three months shy of his 90th birthday.

Ron was born on November 26, 1935, in Suffern, New York, the son of Charles and Evelyn Vilord. He is survived by his loving family, a daughter, Kimberly (Joe) Vosicky of Daphne, Alabama, and a son, Jeffrey Vilord of Springfield, Missouri. He had five grandchildren: Alex Vosicky (Alyse), Molly Vosicky Stinchcomb (Andre), Brad Vilord (Amber), Nathan Vosicky (Allison), and Rachael Vilord. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren and a brother, David Vilord (Sue), from Vermont, and 17 nieces and nephews.

Ron was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Priscilla Vilord, a son, Peter Vilord, his parents, and three siblings, Charles Vilord of Florida, Evelyn Vilord Hoffman of New York, and Beverly Vilord Curry also of New York.

After graduating from Syracuse University, Ron began his career in the food service industry by working in his father’s restaurant, the Eureka Steakhouse in Goshen, New York. His career culminated with executive leadership at Gilbert/Robinson, Inc., Morrison’s Cafeteria, and Ruby Tuesday, Inc., as well as co-owning TJ Cinnamon franchises in Denver, Colorado, and Tulsa, Oklahoma.

In retirement, he and Priscilla made Fairhope, Alabama their ‘forever’ home for 37 years, where they enjoyed daily lunches at the many restaurants in town. He was an active golfer at Lakewood Golf Club, perfecting his game and earning two holes in one. He enjoyed playing cards with local friends and was a voracious reader and history buff. He especially loved outdoor sports like fishing and duck hunting. Ron had a robust collection of antique duck decoys and sport bird artwork. He eventually became a proficient artisan himself, intricately carving and painting over 50 ducks and shorebirds in his lifetime. Both his career and personal interests took him on travels abroad, across the country, and to the local little league baseball games of his great-grandsons.

He attended Fairhope Christian Church in Fairhope for over 30 years, where he and his wife were active members.

Ron was a great man, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who will be dearly missed by those who were blessed to know him.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, September 27, at the Fairhope Christian Church, 349 Fairhope Blvd. In Fairhope, AL. Visitation will be at the church at 10:30 am, followed by the service at 11:00. Lunch will be served in the church Fellowship Hall at noon.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW
FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
19698 GREENO RD.
FAIRHOPE AL. 36532
(251) 990-7775
www.wolfefuneralhomes.co