Ralph Lewis

Ralph Lewis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Born on June 8, 1934, in Ironton, Ohio, Ralph was the cherished son of Joe and Mary Louise (Clark) Lewis. From his earliest days in the rolling hills of southern Ohio, Ralph carried with him a quiet strength and gentle humor that would endear him to countless family members and friends throughout his remarkable life. Growing up in Ironton, Ralph attended the local public schools and, with characteristic perseverance, later obtained his GED. His journey took him to Kansas, where he worked with diligence and skill at Columbia Metal in both Iola, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri. In 1994, Ralph retired from Joe Frye Construction, where he had established himself as a master carpenter, respected by colleagues for both his craftsmanship and integrity. On June 14, 1977, Ralph wed Sharon Rose Harris in Independence, Missouri. Their marriage became a shining example of love, devotion, and partnership, together embracing the joys and challenges of life for nearly five decades. Ralph and Sharon shared a passion for travel, journeying together to every state in the union except Hawaii. Their adventures are fondly remembered by all who knew them, evidence of Ralph’s boundless curiosity and zest for life. Ralph had a rich array of interests. He was an avid golfer who found satisfaction in the quiet rhythm of the game; a singer whose voice brightened gatherings both large and small; and a crossword enthusiast whose sharp mind delighted in the intricacies of language. Above all, Ralph treasured time spent with his family, relishing every moment in their company. He was baptized at First Baptist Church of Wyandotte in Oklahoma, a testament to his enduring faith. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Mary Louise Lewis; siblings, Joseph Lewis, James E. Lewis, Edna Dement, Pauline Adkins, and Catherine Ross; son, Ralph Earl Lewis; and grandson, Barry Lee Farmer. The memory of their lives together remains forever etched in the hearts of those who survive him. Ralph leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom to his devoted wife, Sharon Lewis of the home; daughters, Gina Farmer (Mike Zinser) of Stilwell, and Theresa Lewis; son, Steven Lewis (Michelle) of Kansas City, MO; sisters, Mary Littlejohn of Grover, NC, and Alfreda Kyle of Cincinnati, OH; grandchildren, Amanda McGraw (Kit), Nick Hilton (Courtney), Alex Hilton (Megan), Jacob Lewis, Krista Lewis, Annabel Lewis, and Isaac Lewis; 11 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; and a host of other family members and friends whose lives were brightened by his kindness. A graveside service in memory of Ralph will be held at 1PM, Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Wyandotte Indian Cemetery, with Bro. C. G. Gilmore officiating. Pallbearers will be Mike Zinser, Kit McGraw, Nick Hilton, Alex Hilton, Steven Lewis, and Jacob Lewis.

Ralph Lewis

June 8, 1934 - September 7, 2025