Robert "Benny" Ralston

Robert “Benny” Ralston, 90, of McDowell, passed away Friday, November 12, 2021.

He was born in McDowell on October 15, 1931, a son of the late Frank Tyler and Caroline (Hess) Ralston.

An Army veteran, Benny served in Korea from July 1952 until June 1954. He was a former member of Stonewall Ruritan Club and had also served on the Highland County School Board. He attended both McDowell United Methodist and Presbyterian churches.

A self-employed brick/block mason, Benny had also worked for Nielsen Construction, Dave Smith Construction, as well as Bath County Pump Storage. He enjoyed watching the RFD channel, mowing grass and traveling throughout the states. Above all Benny was a good father and provider, and loved his grandchildren dearly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Anna Lou (McCray) Ralston; and two brothers, Frank Ralston Jr. and Walter “Dutch” Ralston.

He is survived by four sons Michael and wife, Joyce of Monterey, Steve and wife, Terena of Blue Grass, Robert B. Jr. and wife, Debra and Mark Ralston, both of McDowell; brother, James Ralston and wife, Judy of McDowell; sister, Dorothy Lam and husband, Lynwood of Mt. Solon; five grandchildren, Eric Ralston of Monterey, Ben Ralston and wife Jordan of Montpelier, Casey Ralston of Blue Grass, Erin Will and husband, Jamie of Mustoe and Cody Ralston of Millboro; two great-grandson, Jaxson Will and Andrew Ralston; numerous nieces and nephews; as well as special friend, Sidney Simmons.

A graveside service will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, November 16, 2021 in McKendree Methodist Church Cemetery, with pastor Mark Davis officiating.

Pallbearers will be Ben, Eric and Cody Ralston, Mike McCray, Jerry Warner, Carson Snyder and Jake McCray.

The staff of Obaugh Funeral Home will receive family and friends wishing to pay their respects between 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday, November 15.

The family suggest memorial donations be sent to McKendree Cemetery, c/o Sandy Botkin, 215 Doe Hill Road, McDowell, Va. 24458.

A Memorial Tree was planted for Robert "Benny"

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