Ralph Thompson Gregory

 

Ralph Thompson Gregory, 93, of Girard, passed away Saturday evening, Oct. 22, 2022 at Heritage Health Care in Carlinville.

Ralph was born on Oct. 28, 1928 to Dolphus and Noca (Thompson) Gregory in Acorn, AK.

He married Sarah Helen James in Poteua, OK on Dec. 25, 1952. She preceded him in death on March 16, 1999.  Then on June 17, 2000, he married Ruby G. Burden in Girard and she passed away on Feb. 24, 2019.

Ralph graduated from Monroe Oklahoma High School, where he was in the ROTC program.  He received his bachelors degree in agriculture and mechanical from Oklahoma A&M and later received his masters from Sangamon State University.   Ralph started his working career immediately following graduation from A&M at the Girard High School, where he taught FFA, chemistry, and math.  He also was the guidance counselor for the school and a student council advisor.  He retired from the Girard school system in 1983, after 30 years of service.  He then became a counselor for the Urban League in Springfield for another 10 years.

Ralph was a member of the First Baptist Church in Girard where he was a deacon, taught Sunday School, and lead the men’s Thursday night bible study group.

He was an avid golfer, played bridge, dominos, and rummy.

Ralph also was a skilled carpenter and in his lifetime built four homes for himself and family.

Ralph is survived by his son, Keith Edward (Jayne) Gregory of Girard; daughter, Julie Ann (Dave) Fitzgerald of Girard; four granddaughters, Cesan (Christopher) Cole, Klaire Elizabeth (John) Threlkeld, Kwynn Ellen Gregory, and Mackenzie Lynn Barboza; grandson, Kole Edward Fitzgerald; seven nieces and nephews.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents Dolphus A. and Noca E. Gregory; wife, Sarah Helen Gregory; wife, Ruby G. Gregory; sons, Phillip Alba Gregory in 1955, James Kent Gregory in 2021; brothers, Arvil A. Gregory, Alva J. Gregory, and Howard A. Gregory and sister, Lorene U. Gregory.

Private services will be held  at the Girard Cemetery, Girard, with Rev. Victor Angulo, officiating.

Memorials are suggested to either the First Baptist Church or the Girard Rescue Squad.

Online condolences can be given at davisandersonfuneralhome.com.

Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Girard is in charge of arrangements.