Ronald McQuillan Anderson

Ronald McQuillan Anderson, 70, of Lebanon, passed away Sunday (Aug. 21, 2016).  He was born on April 16, 1946 in New Britain, one of the 15 children of the late Chester and Olive (Hubbard) Anderson.  Growing up in a large family such as he did, it fostered in him a generous spirit with care and concern for others – and an incredibly strong work ethic.  While still in high school, he took on full time work at a brick yard to help support his younger siblings and met the love of his life, Vernette Johnson.  In 1968, he enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of SP-4 with the 20th Engineer Brigade.  In 1969, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism and earned six other medals during his two tours of duty through 1973.  He gave so very much of himself (as many others did) to preserve and defend our freedom during the War.  Together, Ronald and Vernette welcomed a son, James, and he now had a family of his own to provide for.  He worked tirelessly, mostly in farming, to provide the best he could for them.  Vernette predeceased him in 1988.  Later, he met and married Faith “Fay” Burdick in 1991 and the two shared 16 years before she predeceased him in 2006.  In addition to his son and daughter-in-law, James and Ashley Johnson of Lebanon; he leaves two grandchildren, Alexis Johnson and Blaine Bigelow, Jr.; three step grandchildren, Elijah, Queen, and Davion; two great grandchildren, Kolby and Carter; and eight siblings, Edie, Chester, Roy, Ollie, Tommy, Harry, Ralph and Terry; and numerous extended family members and friends.  Ronald was predeceased by three brothers, Billy, Lester and Dickie.  A Graveside Service celebrating his life will be observed 10 AM Saturday (Sept. 3rd) at Maplewood Cemetery, 184 Salem Tpke., Norwich, where he will be laid to rest with Vernette. There are no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.