Ronald McBee

Well known Howard County cattleman, Ron McBee, died suddenly in a farm accident east of Fayette on March 15, 2023.  He was 71 years of age.

Ronald Rice McBee was born February 19, 1952 in Braymer, MO, the son of Lloyd E. and Ramona (Rice) McBee.  He was educated in Braymer Public Schools and graduated with the class of 1970.  He continued his education obtaining his degree at the University of Missouri, graduating in 1974 specializing in Agriculture Science and Animal Husbandry.

Ron was united in marriage to Teri Bounds on August 16, 1991.  Appropriately, the couple chose the Highway Gardens at Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, MO as the site of the ceremony.  Mrs. McBee survives of the home.

Ron loved his family deeply and had a rooted passion for the cattle business.  His interest developed from an early age and continued throughout his life.  Early in his career, along with his cattle business, he worked as a Distributor for Gallagher Power Fence.  He was well known for the quality of the stock he produced and the specialized breed he raised.  Ron was highly recognized as an expert in controlled grazing and established McBee Cattle Company in 1974.  The cattle sales that were held regularly at the ranch drew crowds from a wide and diverse area.

Ever interested and involved with other stockmen, Ron had served on many boards in various capacities including President of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and the National Braunvieh Association.  Ron led a life of dedication, hard work, humanitarianism, and kindness and will be missed by many.

Along with his wife, Ron is survived by three daughters, Erin McBee Merrrill Davis of Birmingham, AL, Robin (Jack) Thomas of Sweet Springs, MO, and Tara Cuppy of St. James, MO; three sons, Brett Merrill McBee of New York, Jayson (Raylene) Hollrah of Hermann, MO, and Sean (Misti) Hollrah of Columbia, MO.  He is also survived by one sister, Toni (Mike) Shrewsbury of Lathrop, MO, and two brothers, Jerry (Joy) McBee of Clark, MO, and Terry “Tiger” McBee of Carrollton, MO.  Ron had 9 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Stoney McBee.

A memorial service for Ronald McBee will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at Faith Family Church near Fayette, with Rev. Jamie Page officiating.  The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 PM on Tuesday, March 21 at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Family’s Choice, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65248.

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