James Ronnie Littleton, 84, of Flemingsburg, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, May 24, 2026, after a brief stay at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky.

Born on June 2, 1941, in Huntington, West Virginia, Ronnie was the son of the late Jonas and Alma Williams Littleton. He grew up with a passion for sports and community, eventually becoming a local baseball star. In the 1960s, Ronnie showcased his talent as a shortstop for the Flemingsburg Aces, a semi-pro team in the Blue Grass League that played in a local circuit alongside teams like the Lexington Parkette Hustlers and the Nicholasville Nicks.

Ronnie carried that same grit and dedication into his career. Affectionately nicknamed "Top Cat" by his electric co-op friends, he retired from Fleming-Mason Energy after 37 years of dedicated service as a lineman. When reminiscing about his days as a lineman, Ronnie loved to boast that his crew didn't have the luxury of modern bucket trucks—they relied strictly on their spikes, straps, and sheer determination to navigate poles in the absolute worst weather conditions. Beyond his work on the lines, Ronnie was a proud and dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge since 1971, sharing in brotherhood and community service for over 50 years.

In his free time, Ronnie lived life to the fullest. He had a passion for restoring classic cars, watching races at local tracks, and attending bluegrass shows with his wife, Margie. An avid joke teller who could anchor any room with laughter, he always ensured you left his presence with a smile. In his retirement, Ronnie loved staying connected to the community. He enjoyed "swinging by the shop" to visit "the boys" at Flemingsburg Machining, surveying the newest builds at Cropper Racing Engines, checking on the guys at the FME Co-op, and tinkering in his own workshop. More than anything, he loved watching his grandchildren carry on his passion for the game at their baseball and softball games. He was a man of simple pleasures, famously fond of shirts with a front pocket, Stewarts Hot Dogs, good bluegrass music, and a reliable baseball cap.

Above all else, Ronnie valued his family and their safety, always sending loved ones off with his signature reminders to be careful, because "That's the main thing" and to "Call me when you get home."

Ronnie’s greatest legacy is the large, loving family he leaves behind.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 25 years, Margie Newsom Littleton. His memory will be cherished by his two children, Rhonda (Carl) Whitson and Benjamin Littleton; his two grandchildren, Carly (Garry) Crawford and David (Kenlie) Whitson; and his five great-grandchildren, Addison McKinney, Kayden Crawford, Cameron Crawford, Colton Crawford, and Hazel Whitson.

Through his marriage to Margie, Ronnie's family grew to include her three children, Pamela (Bill) Ishmael, Dwayne (Kimberly) Newsom, and Julie (Justin) Moore; her four grandchildren, Heather (Michael) Helphinstine, Tyler Hardin, Emerson Moore, and Quinn Moore; and her three great-grandchildren, Harper, Colton, and Connor Helphinstine.

A man who cared for and loved all his family unconditionally, Ronnie is also survived by his nephew, Chris (Faye) Littleton, and his niece, Ginger Brogli, alongside a host of additional beloved family members and lifelong friends.

Ronnie was welcomed into eternity by his parents, Jonas and Alma; his brother, David; and his grandson, Isaac Knipp.

The funeral service will begin at 12 noon, Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Boone-Nickell Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Boling officiating.

Ronnie will be laid to rest in Elizaville Cemetery.

Pallbearers include David Woodson, Chris Littleton, Carl Woodson, Benjamin Littleton, Bobby Knipp, Dwayne Newsom, Justin Moore, and Bill Ishmael. Honorary pallbearers include Dale Emmons, Garry Crawford, and Terry Lytle.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the hour of service at 12 noon, Saturday, at Boone-Nickell, located at 150 West Water Street in Flemingsburg, Kentucky 41041.

Masonic Rites will be conducted by the members of the Fleming 112 Masonic Lodge during the services.

In place of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Ronnie to the Fleming 112 Masonic Lodge (C/O Woodie Reeves, 161 Helphenstine Road, Wallingford, KY 41093).

Friends may offer online condolences at www.boonenickellfuneralhome.com