Ronni G. Candler

Ronni Gaskin Williamson Candler

Ronni Candler, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, passed away on April 19, 2020, after a brief battle with cancer.  She was 75 years of age.

Ronni was born in Jacksonville to Milton and Jean Gaskin.  She grew up in Venetia and settled in Avondale/Riverside, where she pursued a successful career in real estate.  She and her mother founded Avondale Realty on South McDuff Avenue in 1975, and they became local experts, particularly in historic homes.  She was active in the foundation of Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP) and a board member for over 25 years.  She was instrumental in the preservation of the Martha Washington Hotel when it was to have been demolished in 1977.  In 1985 and 1989, Ronni was a key board member in the successful effort to have Riverside and Avondale listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Ronni’s interests were in music, painting, antiques and, especially, community service.  She was an accomplished equestrian and an animal lover, particularly rescued dogs and cats.

Ronni was predeceased by her husband Dr. Jim Williamson in 1989 and her husband Bob Candler in 2010.  She is survived by her daughters Shelley McArn of Middleburg and Suzanna Shuford of Orange Park; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; and her sister, Patti Williams of Windermere, FL.

Ronni’s family is particularly thankful to the staff of Community Hospice, Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital, whose gentle care was so important in her final days.

Donations in Ronni’s memory to Riverside Avondale Preservation, Inc., Buckland House, 2623 Herschel St., Jacksonville, 32204, would be appreciated.