Born as Ronald James Padavona in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on July 10th 1942. Ronnie adopted the surname Dio sometime in the early ’60’s, taking inspiration from mobster Johnny Dio. He is known for his fantasy-based lyrics and sword and sorcery image. His career stretched back to the mid ’50s when he performed and recorded with local rockabilly, doo wop, and rock and roll groups in his native upstate New York. Known for fronting the bands Elf, Rainbow and joining Black Sabbath as their new vocalist in 1979. Dio later departed the group, forming his own band, Dio (2) with Sabbath drummer Vinny Appice.

In late 2009, Ronnie was diagnosed with stomach cancer, and passed away in Houston, Texas, due to complications from this disease on May 16th, 2010.

He was married to Wendy Dio who also was his manager.