Ronnie James Abate, 78, of Lumberton, Texas, passed away on April 5, 2026. He was born on June 10, 1947, in Port Arthur, Texas.

Ronnie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family above all else. He found great joy in caring for those he loved and created a lifetime of memories through his kindness, strength, and unwavering support. He enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing, and he especially treasured playing poker with his father and brothers—moments that brought him laughter and lasting connection.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Abate and Lucille Abate; his brothers, Victor (V.J.) Abate and Luther Abate; and his sister, Virginia (Ginger) Wilson.

Ronnie is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Joyce Abate; his daughters, Lisa Laird of Groves, Angie Doise and her husband Allen of Lumberton, and Rhonda Bonin and her husband Scott of Montgomery. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Mason and Lyndsay Salazar, Justin and Jenna Salerandi, Hayden Thibodeaux, Alyse Doise, Addison Doise, Montgomery Bonin, Stratton Bonin, Ranger Bonin, and Ella Laird; his great-grandchildren, Davis Salerandi and Myla Salazar along with several nieces and nephews.

Ronnie will be remembered as a loving and devoted family man—a wonderful husband, a proud father, and a deeply cherished grandfather. His presence, guidance, and love will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 beginning at 5:00 pm with a rosary at 6:0o pm at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home , 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas.   A Mass to celebrate Ronnie’s life will be held on April 8, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, located at 211 Hardy Avenue, Nederland, Texas. Family and friends gather together to honor his memory and the profound impact he had on their lives. The final resting place for Ronnie will be at Memory Gardens in Nederland, where a graveside service will be held following the funeral service.

Pallbearers are Abe Abate, Lance Abate, Scott Bonin, and Gina Wilson with Stratton Bonin and Ranger Bonin as honorary pallbearers.

Ronnie James Abate’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit endures in the love he gave and the family he raised. He will be remembered with deep affection, respect, and gratitude for a life well lived. May he rest in eternal peace.