Aging and Adult Services Director Ron Buttram Passes Away

SAN BERNARDINO >> Ron Buttram, a director whose career spanned more than 25 years of public service in San Bernardino County, has passed away. Buttram, 58, served as the director of San Bernardino County's Department of Aging and Adult Services since 2013. The department, which includes Adult Protective Services and the Office of the Public Guardian, provides services and resources to the county’s seniors and adults with disabilities and their families. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California Baptist University and a master’s degree in social work from Loma Linda University. His career with San Bernardino County began in 1991 as an eligibility worker for the Transitional Assistance Department. He joined DAAS in 1999 and quickly rose through the ranks as a social worker, social service practitioner, supervising social service practitioner and district manager. He promoted to a Deputy Director in 2010. Known for his sense of humor, Buttram was well-respected for his knowledge and dedication. Assistant Executive Officer for Human Services CaSonya Thomas praised Buttram’s life of public service to the residents of San Bernardino County. “For more than 25 years, Ron was dedicated to helping others. He truly cared about the well-being of those he served,” Thomas said. “We will miss his dedication and the joy that he brought to those of us who had the honor of working with him over the years.” County leaders echoed Thomas’ praise. “Ron devoted an admirable career to fighting for our county’s seniors and helping other county residents when they were desperately in need,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and First District Supervisor Robert Lovingood. “I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Ron will be missed.” Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman and Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman said, “It is with sadness that we learn of Director Ron Buttram’s passing. I send my most heartfelt condolences to Ron’s family and wish to express how much we appreciated Ron,” Hagman said. “Our county was better as a result of his faithful service, Ron will be missed.” “Ron was a guardian angel and voice for the elderly in San Bernardino County. Every day Ron worked to improve the quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities by giving back to them their independence and ability to make their own decisions,” Gonzales said. “May the outpouring of love received by our senior community serve as a testament to his passion and dedication to his job. He will be greatly missed.” Second District Supervisor Janice Rutherford said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ron’s family at this difficult time,” Rutherford said. “His leadership and his compassion for the senior community will be greatly missed in the Department of Aging and Adult Services.” “I am saddened to hear of Ron’s passing,” said Third District Supervisor James Ramos. “I extend my deepest condolences to his family and coworkers.”