GuthrieAmerica - Ronnie Fields
Tell the world your name.
Ronnie Fields
Where were you born specifically?
In a hospital bed I guess? I was born in OKC at Deaconess Hospital.
When did you move to Guthrie?
We originally moved to Guthrie when I was 5, so about 1978. But I did not start going to school in Guthrie until 4th grade. I did play on some Guthrie soccer teams in 2nd and 3rd grade though. After high school though I went to OU (BOOMER!) and then went to seminary at TCU. Life only recently brought my family back to Guthrie in 2017.
What's your favorite Guthrie-related memory?
That is a hard one. I have so many great memories from growing up here. So maybe I will pick something more recent. I think my favorite memory has been making memories with my family in my hometown-taking our son to the 89ers carnival that was so fun as a kid and playing games and eating greasy food, sitting out on a hot summer evening and enjoying delicious food and amazing entertainment, driving the daughters of old high school friends in parades, and cheering on the Guthrie Bluejays.
What's the best part about living in Guthrie?
The best part about living in Guthrie is being back in Guthrie. I love the small town feel. It's been good reconnecting with "old" friends, seeing the changes, and meeting awesome new Guthrie people. I enjoy going to places and events and seeing all the friendly faces.
What does Guthrie have that other towns don't?
Guthrie has something that no other town can have and for me, that this is my home. This is where I grew up, where so many of my “firsts” happened-good and bad. This town helped to shape me into the person I am today and for that I am thankful.
Are you a GHS alumni?
Yes I am! I was part of the infamous class of 1991.
If you lived here at some point and moved back why?
I go where the Spirit calls. And thankfully I was called to serve at my home church, First Christian Church.
Where do you currently work and how long?
I am the Sr. Minister at First Christian Church of Guthrie. I have been here for about a year and a half.
What do you love most about your job?
My favorite part of what I do is seeing people grow. I love it when people learn something new, see something in a new way, or get a deeper understanding of faith and life. Those moments are beautiful ones to share with someone. And a close second is sharing life with people. Being with someone through the ups and downs of life is very special.
If you grew up in Guthrie and had your first job here...where? Did you get fired?
I never had a paying job in Guthrie. I worked on the family "farm" helping my mom and dad. Over the years we had-cows, horses, pigs, chickens, dogs and cats. There was always something to be done. Unfortunately (and fortunately) I never got fired...only yelled at.
Do you have family here? If so explain...
Yes, I have family here. My dad still lives here in the same house I grew up in. My mom is deceased.
How did you first hear or learn about the GuthrieAmerica brand?
I was told I needed to buy a t-shirt (and threatened) by Heady. Seriously though, I just saw them around and wanted one. I thought they were cool.
Why do you wear GuthrieAmerica tee?
I wear it because I am honored to be from and part of such a great small town. Guthrie really is a one of a kind gem.
What are your favorite things to do in Guthrie?
I am a bit of a foodie so my favorite thing to do in town on a regular basis is eat. We have so many good places to eat.
How would you define what it means when you hear or say COMMUNITY WINS?
When we as people who live, work, worship and play in Guthrie come together we are so much stronger. We have more fun with other people than we do by ourselves. We need each other-conservatives and liberals, east and west, north and south. No matter our background, culture, or preferences we are community and whether we realize it or not, we are better together. That is what community wins means to me.
Anything significant about your life you would like to share?
If I could share one life lesson with people it would be the importance of forgiveness. So many of us are carrying around baggage form previous hurts. That resentment can become a cancer on our soul if we don’t learn to let it go. I have had to forgive much in my own life and if I can, I know others can as well. So may you forgive and give up your perceived right to get even with someone today.
Lastly, we love SHOUT OUTS! Who do you want to give a shout out to?
I want to give a shout out to my one wife Shana for putting up with me for 22 years! Love you! A shout out to my favorite son Max. I’m proud of you!
Lastly, I want to give a shout out to all the people serving others and doing good things in our community. The people who work behind the scenes and out of the spotlight. We don’t always recognize them, but I see you! Thanks for what you do for others!
Wait, one more. What does it mean to CHOOSE GUTHRIE?
Choose Guthrie means we have a lot of choices these days. We choose where to eat, shop, play, go to church, work, attend school, and live. When we “Choose Guthrie” we make it a priority to choose what we have here as much as we can. We want to grow our town and help keep it healthy. The more we Choose Guthrie the healthier we all will be because community wins!