Ralph was deeply loved by his wife, Carole Sue Graves, and their daughters, Ellen Ireson Graves of Virginia, and Eva Taylor Graves of California, all of whom he is survived by. He is also survived by his nieces and their families: Geneva Kramer and her daughter, Paige, of Maryland; Christine Dulling and her husband Major Adam Dulling, and their sons Cooper and Cody of Maryland; and Katie Buchanan of Virginia. He will be lovingly remembered by his mother-in-law, Minnie Sue Jarrell of Virginia; his sister-in-law, Pauline Hess, and her husband, Mark Hess of Virginia; and countless extended family members and innumerable friends whose lives he touched.

Born and raised in Vienna, Virginia, Ralph lived a life rich with curiosity, creativity, and service. He earned a Bachelor of Art in Music from James Madison University and a Master of Arts in Music Composition from the University of Virginia. Ralph’s love of music was the constant thread woven throughout his life. He composed, taught, and played both piano and percussion, sharing his gift with all who listened and wanted to learn.  

For over 35 years, Ralph volunteered with WTJU in Charlottesville, hosting a classical radio program, mentoring new DJs, and developing creative web-based content. A hallmark of his long-running radio show was his commitment to never play the same piece twice, showcasing the vibrant gamut of classical music. In the 1980s, he brought joy to families through his Sunday night radio show on WJMA in Orange, where the broadcast included reading bedtime stories for children. His voice and presence became a quiet tradition in many homes.

Professionally, Ralph poured his heart into every job he did, especially his work at Crutchfield Corporate Headquarters. As a member of the Creative Department, Ralph found deep fulfillment in writing about products that would help people enjoy music. Ralph and his family remain profoundly grateful to Bill Crutchfield, Ralph’s colleagues, and the staff at Crutchfield for their kindness and support during his illness.

Ralph’s love of learning was boundless. He delighted in reading, working all types of puzzles, spirited games with friends, and Friday night bridge---where he still proudly holds the record for the highest score in a single evening. A lifelong passion for model trains and toy cars, lovingly inherited from his father, also remained close to his heart.

His faith and his church family at Orange Presbyterian Church were central to his life. He served as Clerk of Session, published the weekly newsletter, played in the handbell choir, and managed the church’s sound system. Ralph’s quiet dedication and willingness to serve was a cornerstone of the congregation.

Those who knew Ralph will remember him as a calm, steady, caring presence and a source of great wisdom, humor, and unconditional love. His life overflowed with music, laughter, faith, and genuine connection. For those who paid attention, Ralph quietly taught people how to live. His family and friends will look for him always in the melodies he loved and the harmony he brought to every life he touched.

A service celebrating Ralph’s life will be held at Orange Presbyterian church in Orange, Virginia on Saturday, August 16th at 3:00 P.M. Inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Orange Presbyterian Church’s Organ Fund, 162 West Main Street, Orange, Va. 22960; or the WTJU’s Classical Department in Ralph’s memory, 2244 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, Va. 22903. Preddy Funeral Home of Orange is assisting the family.