Ralph Andrew Stanton's Obituary
Ralph Andrew Stanton
September 13, 1955 – May 1, 2026
It is with shattered hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Ralph Andrew Stanton, on May 1, 2026.
Ralph was born on September 13, 1955, in Ravenna, Ohio to Thomas Ackley Stanton, Sr. and Valeida Strassner Stanton. In 1968, his family moved to Bisbee, AZ and later settled in Tucson in 1969.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest sister, Christina. Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Christy; his children, Brooke (Shannon), Jack (Kriste), Tyler (Garrett), Casey, Julie (Kurt), Jenny (Chris), and Jayme; his cherished grandchildren, Bubby, Sophia, Emily, Kayla, Deo, Jayce, Jessey, Ryan, Ciara, Kyla, Rachel, Kaydance, and Rihanna; his brother, Tom (Patty); his sisters, Marie “Kippy” (Carroll), Gretchen (Larry), and Heidi (Windol); six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Ralph was, like all of us, imperfect. He could be outspoken, strong-willed, and occasionally rubbed people the wrong way. But above all else, he was deeply loved by so many. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel welcome.
He loved music, the color blue, playing games, Tibby and Oakley (our cats), joking around, and spending time in the ministry with his brothers and sisters. Ralph was active in the Rillito congregation and was always willing to help anyone he could. Though he held high expectations, he also showed empathy and understanding when others struggled. He truly tried to encourage everyone around him.
Ralph loved the woods and dreamed of someday living in a log cabin. When asked how he was doing, he would often reply, “Incredible!” He worked hard to remain positive and became a source of strength for many, especially for his children. He loved talking about family history and sharing stories about the things and people he loved. His deep love and respect for his parents always touched those around him.
We will miss his comments at meetings, his singing voice, and hearing him say, “I love you.” We will miss the way he would become emotional when someone did something thoughtful for him, and we will forever remember his generosity and the loving way he provided for his family.
One of Ralph’s favorite movies was Mary Poppins — so much so that he actually bought his own copy, something very unusual for him. His face would light up whenever someone asked if he wanted to watch it. He adored his grandchildren and was incredibly proud of each of them.
Most of all, Ralph loved Jehovah. He would not want us to remain consumed by sadness. He would say, “Go about your day! My worries are over now. I’ll see you later.” We are grateful that his passing was quick and painless. Ralph died faithful and remains in Jehovah’s memory. We look forward to seeing him again — young, healthy, and smiling — in the paradise to come, where perhaps he will finally have his beloved log cabin.
We are deeply grateful for the love and support of family and friends during this difficult time. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 9747 N. St. Patrick Rd., Tucson, AZ 85742 (Zoom meeting info will be provided for those unable to be there), followed by a reception (location to be decided). Please join us in celebrating Ralph’s life and sharing stories, food, and fellowship.
If anyone would like to share their fondest memories of Ralph, we invite you to write them down and bring them to the memorial service (please feel free to e-mail if unable to attend in person) These memories will later be compiled into a book titled Our Memories with Ralph Stanton, so his family and friends may continue to cherish the stories, laughter, and love he shared with so many.
What’s your fondest memory of Ralph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ralph?
Share a story where Ralph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ralph you’ll never forget.
How did Ralph make you smile?