Coral Springs mourns the loss of father Ronald Perkins, a steady presence in emergency services
Coral Springs, Florida – The City of Coral Springs is remembering the life and legacy of Father Ronald Perkins, the long-serving chaplain whose calming presence was a source of strength for the city’s emergency services. Known to many simply as “Father Ron,” Perkins passed away this week, leaving behind a profound impact on the firefighters, police officers, and city workers he served so faithfully.
Father Ron was more than a chaplain—he was a trusted companion in moments of both tragedy and routine. Whether sitting beside first responders after a traumatic event or checking in during a quiet shift at a fire station, his compassion and steadiness left a lasting mark. Coral Springs Fire Rescue described him as “a pillar of strength,” and for many in the city’s public safety departments, that phrase rings true.
Over the years, Father Ron became a familiar and comforting face. He was there during some of the city’s darkest moments, including the aftermath of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. He supported police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other personnel working under immense stress and sorrow.
“Father Ron was always there when you needed him, even if you didn’t know you did,” one firefighter recalled. “He just had a way of helping you breathe again when everything felt too heavy.”
Born in Oneida, New York, Perkins had a multifaceted life before his chaplaincy. He served as a Navy nurse and hospital administrator, then later moved to South Florida, where he co-owned a document management business. It wasn’t until the age of 56 that he became a priest, proving that it’s never too late to answer a calling.
His commitment to public service extended far beyond prayer and spiritual guidance. He helped establish Coral Springs’ Behavioral Health Access Program and worked closely with the city’s behavioral health team to care for the emotional well-being of first responders and employees. His work emphasized that mental health support is essential, especially in high-stress careers.
In 2016, Father Ron supported the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department after the death of firefighter Paul Pietrafesa. It was just one of many times he stood with those in grief, offering presence and solace when words weren’t enough.
He was named Chaplain of the Year by the Federation of Fire Chaplains in 2021, a national honor that recognized both his local impact and broader influence. That same year, then-Fire Chief Michael McNally praised him for his leadership and resilience, while former City Manager Frank Babinec shared how often he turned to Father Ron during emergencies, even in the middle of the night.
His dedication to his role was tireless. He made regular visits to firehouses and police stations, often riding along with officers and checking in with staff. Perkins was affiliated with Public Safety Chaplaincy Inc., a nonprofit that supports chaplains serving first responders. Through this organization, he worked to ensure that chaplains had the tools and training needed to support others.
Father Ron is survived by his wife, Karen, who supported him through his late-in-life calling and ministry. His loss is felt deeply throughout Coral Springs, but his legacy continues in the lives he touched and the comfort he gave.
As the city reflects on his years of service, many say it’s not just what Father Ron did—but who he was—that made the difference.
“Father Ron wasn’t just our chaplain,” one police officer said. “He was our anchor.”
