Reflecting on the Loss of a Dear Friend
I didn’t sleep well at all last night. My heart is heavy as I process the news that one of my best friends, Ron, transitioned last night.
Back in the early 90s, I was searching for someone to bring my songs to life. Sefus Henderson-a great vocalist in his own right-told me I needed a young voice for my music. He invited me to meet him at Mind Builders, a performing arts center in the Bronx, NY.
We waited in an empty mirrored room until a group of young people came in, dancing in perfect unison as they rehearsed for a play. One of them stood out with a bright smile and an energy that filled the room. “That’s Ron,” Sefus said, pointing him out. Ron was about 19 then. After rehearsal, we talked about working together, and from that day on, we were inseparable.
Ron came over every day to work on music. He always had a pen and pad, jotting down lyric ideas. We even got an offer for a record deal as a joint venture. Although we walked away because the terms weren’t fair, we never stopped hanging out. Ron even stayed with me for a while-he was family. I never saw him angry or upset. He called me his big brother, and he always reached out for spiritual advice and encouragement. He was always there for me, and I was there for him.
Ron helped me navigate the stress of being an NYPD officer. He listened to my stories, and we laughed together. We had our own adventures-good, clean fun making music. Even after I retired and moved to North Carolina in 2004, we kept in touch. Just a few weeks ago, on April 2nd, 2025, I sent him one of my latest tracks. He replied, “I luv that track. I’ll do the vocals over if you want. In the process of getting my studio back up. Miss you big bro!! How’s everyone?” I was just about to send him more music to sing, and now, just like that, he’s gone.
Today, I’m reflecting on all the memories and the bond we shared. In his honor, I’m sharing a song I produced and wrote, with Ron on vocals: “Hold On.” I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it. https://youtu.be/nBUry8V5vwY?si=u9W3k6shCjjUXu3D
Rest in peace, Ron. Thank you for the music, the laughter, and the brotherhood.
My sincerest, most heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved Ron Anthony. Singing, songwriting - music - that's what connected Ron Anthony and me in the early 1990s in Brooklyn. We both recorded a few songs with a producer and songwriter named James Johnson, who became a very good friend to both of us. Ron and I stayed in touch over the years via Facebook. I had plans to attend the Sensational Soul Cruisers concert in Red Bank on 4/26 and very much looked forward to his performance.
Ron was smart, warm, funny, hardworking, a powerfully loving and giving father and a blessed son to his mother, who I'm sure is truly heartbroken at this time.
I pray for his beautiful children, his mother and whole family whose pain and devastation can't be imagined.
My heart is completely and eternally broken.
May Ron Anthony rest in the peaceful arms of Jesus the Christ, in whom Ron had unwavering faith and the utmost belief. We know our beloved brother and friend is safe in His arms.
Rest well, old friend. Rest well.
Loved Ron & the Soul Cruisers. Teased that I became a groupie. His talent was extraordinary. His smile, warmth and friendliness was so genuine. HIS LIGHT WILL SHONE BRIGHT ALWAYS!
My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
May His memory be eternal
I had the pleasure and honor to see Ron sing with the sensational soul cruisers many times. We also were able to have many conversatiobs with him. He was a sweet guy. We are deeply sorry for your immense loss and hope his memory will carry you thru the datk days ahead.
First and foremost, deepest condolences to all of Ron’s family, friends, colleagues and all of the fans!
Ron brought love and sunshine to all. I’m so fortunate to have known him. His talent, his voice, his infectious smile will live on in all our hearts. My life was blessed because of Ron. He was one of my prayer warriors and I will cherish all the times spent enjoying his beautiful voice.
You will be missed. Fly with the angels!
Thank you Ronnie!! Sharing time with you onstage and off stage was always a pleasure. I cherish all the memories and will greatly miss your Beautiful Love and Energy.
Rest Easy Now Bud.
Yours in Eternal Groove…. Rich Kulsar
I only had the privilege of being in his presence twice once. Once in my church service when you sang a beautiful hymn and the second time at my Pastor’s Birthday Celebration through his special friend Kellie. This is a shock and I am sad to hear it. I will be praying for praying for his children and mother. Evangelist Deborah Greer.
Ron was an amazing father to our children. Our son, Christian’s bday is 4 days before his father’s , we will make sure to celebrate his life always. He was extremely funny, always tried to compete with his cooking skills, an animal lover which he passed on to our children who adore animals as well, basically a jack of all trades. I will miss having you around to see our beautiful children grow up. You were supposed to be here to see our grandchildren. There are so many firsts our children will experience that u will not be here for and it’s truly heartbreaking. We will cherish your memory always❤️.
Ron Anthony was a cherished friend, and I was blessed to travel the world with him, sharing unforgettable musical moments. We laughed, debated, playfully clashed, and reveled in our journey as young singers with boundless dreams. We were eager to embrace the gifts God bestowed upon us through music.
My heart aches knowing how much he cherished his beautiful children and family. Ron had a presence that commanded both respect and admiration—whether or not you knew him, you couldn’t help but honor him, and in time, love him. His voice was immense, but his spirit and love for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ were even greater.
Rest peacefully, my dear friend. Know that I love you deeply. Until we sing together again in God’s Choir. My heartfelt condolences and blessings to his loving family.
Please take a moment to listen to Ron’s music: linktr.ee/ronanthony
Love Charmaine Amee
First and Foremost, We Wish to Convey, Our most Sincere, Heartfelt & Deepest Condolences, to Mrs.Barbara McLeod, Entire Family, Friends & Colleagues!
It was a Most Joyful Honour, Meeting Ron, @ Parx Casino, Bensalem Pennsylvania, Saturday Evening, June 16, 2023, performing with The Iconic Sensational Soul Cruisers, for the First Golden Opportunity!
Ron, truly was a Spectacular Professional Performer, Vocalist, Incredibly Talented Songwriter!
Additionally, Ron 's Beautiful Loving Heart, Wonderful, Charm, Exquisite Elegance / Class & Insatiable Sense of Humor, shall always be GREATLY, Revered, Treasured, Cherished & Adored Forever! Also, His Profound Heartfelt Devotion & Love, towards His " Extraordinary Momma", " Miss Barbara", truly Memorable!
With Love, Honour & Profound Sadness,
Dan & Lyn
Spectacular Celebration's & Extravagant Wedding Designs, LLC
( Ie: The Revered Joyful Honour, of the Role, as Creative Directors, the Sensational Soul Cruisers!
My interaction with Ronnie was always pleasant and he was always telling jokes. It was a pleasure hearing him sing and being a Dad to my nephew.
He is a Child of God. May he RIP...
So difficult to realize you are gone! My deepest sympathies prayers and condolences to your children, family friends band members everyone who ever knew and loved you! I, myself Ron had known you about 30 yrs! Gone much too soon! You will be sorely missed by many! Rest well my friend with the Angels!
Still Trying To Wrap My Head Around Your Loss My Heart Is So So Heavy Your Presence Will Truly Be Missed. Your Smile The Good Times And The Good Laughs We Shared Your Performances With The SOUL CRUISERS WOW!!! Your In Heaven Now Making A Glorious Sound Unto The Lord. REST WELL RON REST WELL My Condolences Too Ron's Children And The Family
Spending your final years with you, laughing, praying, crying and talking into the midnight hours has been a blessing. I thank God for his favor that was upon our lives. Gone way too soon I cannot question the move of God and his will for our lives. I am thankful our last words were that of love, and I can live on knowing you and I felt the same way. You are with the Lord, living in that glorious land. All I can say is, Praise him, Praise him, Praise him.
The family of Ronnie Anthony McLeod, Jr. uploaded a photo
