Ronald Oteloh Dennis

Ronald Oteloh Dennis, 91 of Sylva, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Linda Hollifield Dennis; a son, Stephen Ronald Dennis (Beth); daughters Debra Spinks (Steven), Donna Lundien (Edward) and Dawn Christensen (Dan) grandchildren Bradley Lundien (April) and Chelsea Dennis Prindiville (Mickey). Also surviving are a sister Annette Krasky of Columbia, South Carolina; and two brothers, Charlton Dennis of Turbeville, South Carolina and Wayne Dennis (Gail) of Manning, South Carolina.

Ronald is predeceased by his parents Oteloh and Mabel Dennis and three brothers; Hal Dennis, Milton Dennis and Freddy Dennis.

Ronald graduated from Turbeville High School and then went to Newberry College where he received his bachelors degree in business. He enlisted and served in the US Army as a cryptologist. After his military duty, he was then employed by Commercial Credit in Hickory, North Carolina. At Commercial Credit, one of Ronald‘s fellow employees arranged a blind date with her cousin, Linda, at church. Ronald and Linda immediately fell in love and married August 8, 1959. They raised their family in Sylva, North Carolina.

Ronald and Linda partnered with Linda’s parents, Linzie and Marie Hollifield. They grew a successful business known to this day as Hollifield Jewelers. Hollifield Jewelers is still owned and operated by his son, Stephen Ronald Dennis and his wife Beth. When Ronald and Linda retired, they spent most of their time at Santee Cooper Lake doing what they loved most, spending time with family. Some of Ron’s happiest days were spent on Santee Cooper-where he enjoyed fishing for giant catfish (personal best 48.8lbs). Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with family, pulling loved ones on skis and tubes behind his pontoon, eating whole hog barbecue and gathering for games like poor man horseshoes and corn hole. The sound of laughter and friendly competition created some of his family’s most treasured memories.

A celebration of life will be held at Appalachian Funeral Home on Sunday, June 28 at 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather and share fond memories as they honor a life well lived. The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Four Seasons Hospice for their compassionate care, comfort and support-especially nurse Raven. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Four Seasons Hospice Care.