Honoring the legacy of Ron MacArthur

The Cape Gazette and the broader Sussex County community have lost a steadfast advocate, storyteller and friend with the passing of Ron MacArthur May 14 at age 70.

Ron's legacy is woven into the fabric of Sussex County, not just through his journalistic endeavors, but through his unwavering commitment to service and history.

A Seaford native, Ron began his journalistic journey at 18 with the Seaford Leader, later contributing to the Seaford Star and the Milford Chronicle. His tenure with the Cape Gazette spanned nearly two decades, during which he became the senior-most reporter, covering Sussex County government, transportation issues and various community events. His Around Sussex column was a window into the heart of our community, rich with local history, human interest and thoughtful observations.

But Ron's impact extended well beyond the newsroom. He served on the Seaford City Council from 1990 to 2005, becoming the youngest person ever elected at the time. His civic spirit reached into many corners of the community: the Boys & Girls Club, Seaford Little League, Kiwanis and the Nanticoke River Watershed Group, which he founded to help protect the river he loved.

In his personal life, Ron was known for his love of nature, photography and time spent on the water. He loved his family just as much. He found joy in exploring the outdoors and documenting the beauty of Sussex County through his lens. In 2014, he married Kathy O’Hanlon, and they built a life together in Lewes. Just this spring, friends and family celebrated Ron’s 70th birthday and retirement at the Lewes Yacht Club.

Ron’s passing leaves a void, but his presence will continue to be felt for a long time to come. We remember him not only as a stellar local journalist, but also as a kind human being who dedicated much of his life to helping others and supporting the betterment of his community. 

Ron MacArthur’s life will be remembered with visitation from 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesday, May 28, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m. See his full obituary in the Friday, May 23 Cape Gazette.