Ralph Clayton Wilson

It is with great sadness and disbelief that the family of Ralph C. Wilson Sr. announces his sudden passing on October 1, 2024, at his home in Elko, GA.

Ralph was born in Vermont on January 27, 1942, to parents Ruth and Carl. The family lived in New Hampshire at that time. Ralph would eventually relocate to Trumansburg, NY where he would reside with his first family. It was there that he was a “horse trader” and worked construction, remodeling residential homes for college students. He then moved to Montour Falls, NY to establish a dairy farm on 175 acres, also raising a few hogs. In the late 70s he opened a plumbing, heating, and electric store where he met Doreen, who would become his wife. The couple moved back to the farm in the early 80s where, together, they raised beef cattle, horses, mules, chickens, a goat, barn cats, dogs, and harvested hay, for both use on the farm and to sell. The family also cut and sold firewood, using the horses and mules to haul the logs out of the woods. Ralph could always find a way for the family to survive and was always looking to learn anything he could to help the farm and family prosper. Ralph later joined the Union as a carpenter and millwright. Using his knowledge, he and his wife built their log home together. Upon retirement, Ralph and his wife moved to Georgia. Together, they would travel in their motorhome to many bluegrass festivals, as they both enjoyed the music. When his wife learned to play the mandolin, he was in his glory. Ralph was also a very talented artist in his younger years, often capturing the wildlife and nature that he was fond of, as he was an avid hunter and fisherman. Ralph and his wife recently finished building a fish camp/cottage in Darien, GA and would often spend time there. Ralph would look forward to going fishing and shrimping with his friend and neighbor, David, on David’s crab boat. Those were very peaceful times for him. 

Ralph is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 46 years, Doreen; his children Tina Marie of Florida, Ralph Jr. of Pennsylvania, Stephanie Elke of Georgia, and “adopted” daughter BJ of New York; granddaughter Emma, her fiancé Sam, and their daughter (his great-granddaughter) Paislee of Georgia; grandsons Billy and Michael; and numerous extended family and friends.

No services are to be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to The Shriners Hospital or St. Jude, both organizations being very dear to his heart.