Edson Kendrick Wiley Ralph, Jr.

Edson Kendrick Wiley Ralph Jr., “Ken” aged 77, passed away on October 17th at his home on Smith Mountain Lake in Union Hall, Virginia. Born on February 12, 1947 in New Haven, CT, Ken led a vibrant life marked by his passions and dedication to both his family and career. Ken graduated high school from The Hopkins School in New Haven, CT. and furthered his education at Stetson University in DeLand, FL. Upon graduation he entered the Army as a Second Lieutenant serving two years in Washington DC. After leaving active duty, he continued in the same position as a Systems Analyst with the Army Corps of Engineers until his retirement in 2004. Living in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, Ken served his local community as President, Secretary and a member of the Board of the DeWitt-Rocky Run Ruritan Club. He was also an Elder and served on the Session for Bott Memorial Presbyterian Church. Life for Ken was always full of activity and adventure which culminated in his move upon retirement with his wife to his dream home at Smith Mountain Lake. 

An avid boater and wakeboarder, he was a member of the Crusty Boarders who met weekly to enjoy the sport and mutual friendship. He served on the Environmental Committee of the Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission and volunteered as a Water Quality Monitor for several years. He continued his desire to serve by volunteering to pick up food at the Virginia Food Bank for Lake Christian Ministries. Ken was also a passionate motorcyclist and car enthusiast, enjoying rides on his Indian motorcycle and drives in his Corvette as a member of the Star City Corvette Club. His love for snow skiing carried him across Europe and the US. His son was skiing the Alps with him at age 6 and they continued the tradition with annual trips until 2017, when his son became a Father. Ken so enjoyed sharing his love of adventure and new experiences with family and friends. His zest for life extended to his travels with Wendy, his beloved wife of 31 years. Together, they explored the world, adding to the rich tapestry of their shared experiences and fulfilling his promise of showing her “A Whole New World”.  

He is survived by his wife, Wendy Weber Ralph; son, Timothy Kendrick Ralph; daughter, Betsy Ralph Miller; brother, William Robertson Ralph (Susan); grandchildren, Carson Wynn Miller, Camryn Paige Miller, Liliana Grace Ralph, and Kendrick Axle Ralph; niece, Tracy Suzanne Ralph (Mike), and nephew, Christopher Thomas Ralph (Danielle). Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Edson Kendrick Wiley Ralph Sr. and Georgiana Black Ralph and son-in-law, Brian Gene Miller. A private service will be held at a later date, with interment at the Mount Carmel Cemetery in Hamden, CT. 

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, supporting the fight against a disease that affects so many lives.

Arrangements will be announced by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory, 62 VA Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.