Ronald Cedric “Popa” Brunson was born on July 16, 1953, to the late Willie Sr. and Leola Brunson in Wilmington, NC. The third of six children, the family moved to New York for a better life. There, Ronald received his early education along with his vocational training. Ronald worked various jobs before becoming employed with the New York City Department of Transit for 14 1/2 years.

“Popa” as he was known to family and friends, was always a strong willed hard worker that was loved by those he came in contact with. Over the last few years, Popa developed a relationship with his son Dwayne, that every father and son would have loved. Popa was always there for his son Justice even to the very end. He also had a special relationship with his step-daughter Nicole, trips to Costco were their favorite Thursday outings.

Preceding him in death were his two wives, Nazzerine and Joyce; his daughter, Uvasia; his mother Leola; his father, Willie Sr.; his sister, Shirley and his brothers, Willie Jr., Eric and Douglas.

He leaves to cherish his memories two sons, Dwayne and Justice Brunson of New York City; one sister, Sheila (Jerome) of Charleston, SC; three step-daughters; two stepsons; grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.


I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto them also that love his appearing.
II Timothy 4:7-8 KJV