Ron Louis Sobala

Ron Louis Sobala, 78, of Brunswick, Georgia, passed away September 1, 2026, at his residence.

Ron was born Raul Lopez Castillo III on September 9, 1947, in West Palm Beach, Florida, the son of Raul Lopez Castillo Jr. and Bonnell Gloria Brown. His early years were rooted in a unique Cuban-American family history. At the time of Ron's birth, his paternal grandfather, Dr. Raúl López del Castillo, was serving as Prime Minister of Cuba. When Ron was three years old, his mother married Emil Sobala, who adopted him, and Ron was raised in Miami under the Sobala name.

As a young man, Ron served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1967 during the Vietnam era. Following his military service, he spent many years working in the international oil industry, a career that took him to numerous countries around the world.

While working in Brazil, Ron met Léa Silvia Pizzano. The two married in Brazil in 1981, and soon afterward began their life together in the United States. They remained married for 45 years.

After his years working overseas, Ron continued his career at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia, where he worked until his retirement.

Ron's life followed a path that was anything but ordinary. From his childhood in Miami and service in the Navy to a career that took him around the world, he accumulated a lifetime of experiences before eventually settling on the Georgia coast. He was charismatic, charming and strong-willed, with a personality that was distinctly his own. His life spanned many places, chapters and experiences, and his presence will remain a part of the family he leaves behind.

Ron is survived by his wife of 45 years, Léa Sobala; his sons, Jason Jon Sobala of Miami, Florida, and Christopher Luiz Pizzano-Sobala (Lauren Franklin Sobala) of Brunswick; his granddaughters, Sofia Rose Sobala and Scarlett Belle Sobala; his brother, Antonio Lopez Castillo; and his sister, Anna Maria (Anita) Lopez Castillo.

Per Ron's wishes, his service will be held privately.