Ronald Frank Ilhardt; December 5, 1948 – October 3, 2026

Ronald Frank Ilhardt, 77, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2026 at his home in Franklin, North Carolina, surrounded by family. Known affectionately as “Ronnie” to his family and friends, he lived a life marked by dedication to his family, commitment to his community, and a distinguished career in law enforcement and public service.

Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Ronnie moved to Miami, Florida at the age of 4. He attended Kensington Park Elementary School, Citrus Grove Junior High School, and Miami Senior High School, where he graduated in 1967. During his high school years, he was also a member of the local rock band, The Pawns, where he played guitar, creating memories and friendships that remained a cherished part of his youth.

After high school, Ronnie attended Miami-Dade Community College, where he studied Criminal Justice. In 1969, he made an important decision that would shape the rest of his life: he married his longtime high school sweetheart, Marilyn Lyon. Knowing he wanted to provide for his new wife while continuing his education, Ronnie joined the City of Miami Police Department at the age of 20.

Ronnie devoted 26 years to the City of Miami Police Department, serving with distinction and dedication. For 22 of those years, he worked as a homicide detective, a demanding role that reflected his determination, courage, and commitment to seeking justice for others. Ronnie was also committed to youth sports for many years, coaching Pop Warner football at K-Land Park/Boys and Girls of Miami and Kendall Hammocks Park. He retired from the City of Miami Police Department in 1995.

Following his retirement from the police department, Ronnie continued his career in public service. He joined the Office of the Attorney General, working in the Medicaid/Medicare fraud units. He remained there until his retirement in 2012.

After retiring, Ronnie and Marilyn moved from Miami, Florida to Franklin, North Carolina, where they embraced a quieter chapter of life and made many more wonderful memories together. Ronnie and Marilyn shared 52 years of marriage until her passing in 2021. Ronnie found love again and married Cathy Conner in 2023, who survives him.

Ronnie will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Ilhardt; his daughter, Kelli Wise (Chris) and son Kyle Ilhardt (Renee); his grandchildren, Tyler Wise, Brooke Wise, Kylie Ilhardt, Austin Wise (Kennedy), Karson Ilhardt, and Klay Ilhardt; his great-grandson, Jaxon Wise; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. Ronnie is also survived by Cathy’s daughter, Misty Stiltner (Chris); her son Corey Stiltner (Lani); and their son, Tucker Stiltner.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 10th, 2026 at 11:00 am at the chapel of Macon Funeral Home. A visitation will be held at Macon Funeral Home on Saturday, October 10th, 2026 from 10:00 am until service time. Burial to follow at Iotla Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The Miami Police Veterans Association (MPVA) Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 291122 Port Orange, FL 32129

Ronnie leaves behind a legacy of love for his family, service to his community, and a lifetime of memories that will remain with those who knew him. His years as a police officer, detective, coach, and public servant touched many lives, but his greatest legacy will always be the family he loved and the memories they shared.

He will be remembered, missed, and loved always.