Ronald “Ron” Carlson passed away peacefully on the morning of January 10, 2026, surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Ron spent his life working to strengthen his community and improve the well‑being of people across the country.

Born in 1935 in Jamestown, New York, Ron grew up deeply proud of the community that shaped his early years. He carried with him wonderful memories of baseball games, debate competitions, theater productions, music, and, of course, the beginnings of his lifelong love of tennis.

Ron attended Ohio Wesleyan University from 1954 to 1958, earning a degree in political science. He was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and spent countless hours on the tennis courts. A semester at American University proved unforgettable, broadening his world and deepening his interest in public service. Most importantly, during these college years he met and married the love of his life, Priscilla Marianna Morrison.

Ron and Priscilla were married in 1958 near her parents’ home in Norris, Tennessee, and began their life together in a small garage apartment in Washington, D.C. After securing jobs on Capitol Hill, they moved to Park Fairfax, Virginia. When Ron’s number was called, he joined the U.S. Navy and served from 1958 to 1960, touring Europe — and finding tennis courts wherever he could.

After his military service, Ron was hired into the Social Security Administration during its formative years and began a distinguished career in public service. He later joined the Department of Health and Human Services, where he rose to a senior executive role and contributed to the development and implementation of the Medicare and Medicaid programs. His work reflected his lifelong commitment to expanding access to healthcare and improving systems that support families and communities.

Ron and Priscilla raised their two children, Dan and Becky, in Columbia, Maryland, where they spent more than 25 years as early residents who embraced the community’s founding vision. As pioneers in Columbia’s early years, they believed deeply in creating a place that was inclusive, diverse, and rich with opportunity for all. Their home reflected those values, and Ron worked tirelessly to help Columbia grow into the community it aspired to be.

Beyond his federal service, Ron poured his energy into local leadership. He founded the Columbia Cooperative Ministry to help clergy navigate the newly planned, intentionally integrated religious community. He also worked with organizations such as Friendship Exchange to provide housing and support for those in need. His dedication to community health and education continued through many years of service on the boards of Howard County General Hospital and Howard Community College.

As empty nesters, Ron and Priscilla moved to Ellicott City, Maryland, settling on Blackberry Lane for the next 30 years. There, they became part of a remarkable circle of neighbors who quickly grew into lifelong friends. Those years were filled with hiking, biking, running, exploring, and sharing adventures — a community that brought joy, laughter, and deep connection to their daily lives. Ron also devoted time to the local Rotary Club, supporting its efforts to strengthen Head Start and expand opportunities for young children and families. During this period, he retired and established his own foundation dedicated to community service and healthcare studies.

To escape the cold winters — and to ensure he could play tennis year‑round — Ron and Priscilla spent more than 20 winters in Virgin Gorda, BVI. There they became part of a close‑knit group of friends who played tennis, snorkeled, and savored the best parts of island life.

Ron was immensely proud of his four grandchildren — Sarah Bowie, Michael Carlson, Matthew Royer, and Stephanie Royer. Each one is entirely their own person, with their own gifts, passions, and paths. Ron took great joy in watching them grow into the distinct, remarkable individuals they are. His love for them was steady and wholehearted, and he celebrated each of their accomplishments with genuine pride.

In the last decade of his life, Ron and Priscilla spent cherished time with family and friends in both Florida and Maryland, creating new memories and deepening lifelong bonds. Ron spent his final years surrounded by the people who loved him most. Priscilla now lives near their daughter, Becky, in Ashburn, Virginia, held close by family as she begins this next chapter.

Ron was an avid tennis player throughout his life, finding joy, camaraderie, and enduring friendships on the court. His warmth, humor, and steady presence made him someone naturally turned to — a listener, a problem‑solver, and a relentless force for good.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held on May 2, 2026, where stories, gratitude, and love can be shared.