Ronald Cadena Espinoza

Ronald Cadena Espinoza, 69 of New Boston, Texas passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at a local hospital. Ron was born September 24, 1951 in San Antonio, Texas to Dolores and Pedro Espinoza. He was a highly decorated veteran in the United States Army. Over his 20-year career he was Special Forces, and an Army Ranger with 101st Airborne Division. He served his country is Vietnam, Central America, and Europe. He also had over 20 years in law enforcement, retiring as a deputy from Bowie County Sheriff's Office and a Lieutenant from De Kalb Police Department. Ron was a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the Scottish Rites, and a member of Austin Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Sandra Espinoza of New Boston, Texas; two sons, Ronald Espinoza, Jr. of Houston, Texas and Cory Espinoza of New Boston, Texas; two daughters, Jeannie Espinoza of San Antonio, Texas and Brandie Jack of Lone Star, Texas; one brother Rick Mercado of San Antonio, Texas; two sisters, Joyce Rojas ad Jo Ann McKinley, both of San Antonio, Texas; eleven grandchildren; and numerous other friends and family. Services will be 11:00 A.M. Monday, January 18, 2021 at Old Salem Baptist Church in New Boston, Texas with Rev. Justin Coburn and Rev. Cory Espinoza officiating. Interment will follow at Old Union Cemetery in Simms, Texas. A come and go visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Sunday, January 17, 2021 at Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas. Online registration at www.bates familyfuneralhome.com.