This morning I lost a special person in my life. It’s not often that someone has such a profound impact on your life, but Ronald Agypt had that impact on me. Eleven years ago, I met this man at 7:30 am for breakfast in Columbus, Georgia for a job interview. Little did I know that my life would be changed forever.
Ronnie exuded humility, kindness, gentleness, generosity, respect, humanity, passion and valuable insight. Ronnie was both a visionary leader and a catalyst for making big, impactful changes occur. (Carpe Diem)
If I could sum Ronnie up in one word, it would be grace. He was unstinting in the amount of time and advice he was prepared to give, he gave me unfailingly good and thoughtful advice on a broad range of topics and always asked how I was doing,
Three weeks ago, we were on the phone having one of our many catch-up calls when he broke the news to me about the status of his cancer. He showed once again the resiliency that he had. He said, “Jeff, I’m not going to make it. The medication is no longer working, and I have a short time remaining. I told Ronnie how sorry I was to hear the news and I wish I could do something to help. He said, Jeff, I’ve accepted the news and I’m ready for that day to come. I’ve lived a great life with a great family and been blessed with many friends around the world, like you. It’s been a good fight, and I’m comfortable with the decision.” We chatted some more, and he could tell that I was in tears and he said, “Jeffrey, it’s ok.” I knew then that he knew that he fought a great fight and he really was comfortable with his decision.
To Kim and the boys, there is nothing that I can say about my friend that you don’t already know about your husband and father. His legacy will outlive us all and so will his memories and great smile.
Ronnie, I will see you again my friend.
Jeff Hyman
Well said Jeff. Well said!
We had some great times together. He will be missed. His family is having a memorial service and celebration of life in Atlanta on Saturday, April 27th.
I was saddened to hear this news. I was not aware of his illness but as part of Ron’s original crew of MVPs, it was easy to see why he was successful in his worksite career as a manager and innovator. Thanks for sharing this article.
You were an excellent addition to our team my friend. He will be missed for sure.
Ron was one in a million. The love he had for his family was an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to witness it. I will remember him as one of the few true gentlemen I have ever known. Love to Kim and the kids and thanks to Jeff for sharing.
Jeff, I could not have said it better. Ron was an inspiration to anyone that met him. I always say that I don’t anyone that could have done what he did at Aflac. He was a true leader that will be sorely missed.