From Army Driver to Asda Legend: Ron Retires at 90
Ron’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Serving in the Royal Corps of Signals from 1948, he drove service members through Suez and Korea before swapping the battlefield for the palace. As a chauffeur based at Lambeth Palace, he ferried Royals like Prince Charles and Princess Anne. After his first retirement in 1996, Ron found a new home at Gosport’s Asda store, where he’s spent nearly 20 years as the beloved store “grandad.”
Asda’s Favourite Grandad Calls Time
Ron’s warmth and cheeky charm have endeared him to colleagues and customers alike. Rachel Webber, the store’s community champion, said: “Ron is really going to be missed by everyone. He’s always happy to share pearls of wisdom and has been a bit of a cheeky chap who says it as it is!”
His dedication shone through fundraising efforts, with Ron always first in the queue. When the store threw him a combined retirement and birthday bash, many staff even gave up their day off to celebrate. They gifted him a hamper packed with his favourite treats—pork pies, steak slices, and cheese puffs.
Colleagues and Customers Rally Around Ron
This year has been tough health-wise for Ron, sparking a wave of well-wishes from many customers. Community spirit runs deep, and his retirement is felt keenly by all. Ron’s daughter, Lynn Reynolds, who manages the store’s admin, said working alongside her dad was a privilege.
“It’s been heartwarming to see everyone come together to give my dad a great send-off. He’s loved working here and it’s meant a lot to see him enjoy his time with us.”
Ron himself reflected on his time at Asda: “I have really looked forward to coming to work. I’ve got to know colleagues and customers — it’s always great to see them. Now I’m 90 years young, my family and I feel it’s the right time to retire. The colleagues are like family, and I’ll definitely be popping back to check they’re coping without me.”
Royal Connections and Proud Remembrances
Before Asda, Ron’s career included chauffeuring for the Royal Family from Lambeth Palace. He fondly recalled Princess Anne’s jokes: “She’d say ‘oh you again’ when she saw me in the driver’s seat.” On Remembrance Day, Ron proudly wore his medals while standing with the Royal British Legion at the store.
Catherine Curtis, the new store manager, praised Ron’s legacy: “Though I haven’t been here long, I was thrilled to finally meet Ron. On behalf of the store, I thank him for his service and wish him a very happy 90th birthday and a peaceful retirement.”
Here’s to Ron – a true local legend whose service, wit, and kindness have left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.
