Ralph John East, 72, of Athens, Alabama passed away on Saturday
October 22. 2022 at his residence. Ralph was born in Illinois on March
14, 1950 to Roy East Sr. and Helen Maher East. Ralph was preceded in
death by his parents and his brothers; Roy East, and James T. East.
Since coming to Alabama, Ralph has attended Isom’s Chapel in Athens.
He was a scholar of the scriptures and taught Adult Sunday School for
several years. He was a compassionate and generous man who
supported Bible Societies and food bank ministries. For more than a
decade he frequently donated his blood for the benefit of new born
and premature babies.
He was a graduate of Brother Rice High School of Evergreen Park,
Illinois and Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Ralph was a pilot
and flight instructor at Midway Airport when he first met his wife Carol,
a student pilot. Ralph enjoyed piloting small aircraft, riding
motorcycles, and fishing. Ralph was an avid World War II historian. He
was also an enthusiastic fan of a broad spectrum of motorsports. His
perceptive and humorous narratives enlivened his relationships.
He was the cherished husband of Carol East for 45 years. Carol and her
sisters; Ruth Amsbaugh and Margaret Gentile are daughters of Edward
Townsend Ferry and Germaine Nemoyer Ferry of Worth, Illinois.
Ralph’s ashes will be scattered in a private ceremony attended by
immediate family. Memorial gifts in his honor may be given to The
Gideons, International or The North Alabama Food Bank.
