NEW HOPE, S.C. — Ronald Ellis Gossen died Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2009, at his home in New Hope, S.C. He was 71.

Mr. Gossen was born in Vicksburg to Ghosn “Gus” Ellis Gossen and Theodora Jacks Gossen. He graduated from Carr Central High School and received an associate degree from Trident Technical College.

He retired from the Navy as chief petty officer and from Lockheed Missile and Space.

He attended New Hope United Methodist Church and was a member of the Fleet Reserve.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Jean Alice Prickett.

Survivors include his wife, Emma Wright Gossen of New Hope; three daughters, Sharon D. Lincoln of James Island, S.C., Toni D. Oliver of Rincon, Ga., and Helen M. Lood of Summerville, S.C.; one son, Ronald E. Gossen II of James Island; nine grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Memorial services will be at noon Oct. 10 at New Hope United Methodist Church in Summerville under the direction of Dial-Murray Funeral Home in Moncks Corner, S.C.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942; New Hope United Methodist Church; or to a favorite charity.