Ronald Louis "Ronnie" Hildebrand, Sr.

On September 3, 2025, the world lost a true craftsman and devoted family man, Ronald Louis "Ronnie" Hildebrand, Sr., who passed away peacefully at home, leaving behind a legacy sculpted through the grit and finesse of grease-stained hands and the warmth of cherished memories.

Born on March 16, 1957, in Columbia, S.C., Ronnie spent his life as an auto mechanic, a vocation he embraced not merely as a means of livelihood, but as his calling. To him, cars were not just machines; they were stories waiting to be heard, puzzles begging to be solved. Day after day, he found joy in the clanging of tools, the smell of oil, and the rhythmic hum of engines coming back to life under his skilled care.

Yet, while Ronnie's passion for mechanics defined his career, it was his role as a grandfather that illuminated his heart. Known affectionately as "Pop Pop," the greatest joy in Ronnie’s life came not from the cars he revived, but from the bright eyes of his grandchildren. He reveled in their laughter and nurtured them with love, instilling in them a sense of wonder and the importance of hard work—a legacy that will surely echo in their futures.

Ronnie leaves behind sons, Ronald "Lil Ronnie" Hildebrand, Jr. (Jennifer) and Kenneth W. Hildebrand (Magali).  Also surviving him are his beloved grandchildren, Ronald "Logan" Hildebrand, Nathan L. Hildebrand, and Addison M. Hildebrand, whose lives were enriched by his unconditional love. Ronnie's spirit will remain a guiding force in their lives, a beacon of warmth and wisdom that transcends the physical realm.

He is also survived by his cherished sisters, Debra H. Chandler and Virginia Elaine Hildebrand.   Ronnie's legacy is further etched into the lives of numerous nieces and nephews, who will carry forward the tales of a man who lived life with passion and authenticity.

Ronnie now joins his predeceased loved ones—his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward E. and Marie Howard Hildebrand, and his dear brother, Edward "Bubba" Hildebrand, Jr., along with brother-in-law, Paul E. Chandler—where they undoubtedly share the laughter and stories of their earthly journey.

The community is invited to honor Ronnie during a visitation on September 8, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM at the First Assembly of God in St. Matthews, located at 1176 Calhoun Road, where friends and family can come together to celebrate the life of this remarkable man.  Burial will follow at the church cemetery.  Pastors Mark Call and Ronnie Spires will be officiating.

Ronnie Hildebrand's essence will endure in every life he touched, in every car restored, and in the memories shared around family gatherings. He will be deeply missed, yet forever remembered in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.