By Staff
Woodson “Woody” Thomas Ralston, 76, of Salisbury, passed away Saturday, April 3, 2010, at Rowan Regional Medical Center.
He was born on July 16, 1933 in Petersburg, Virginia to the late Woodson Tucker Ralston and Florence Thomas Ralston. He was a graduate of Petersburg High School and majored in Business Administration at East Carolina University.
His passion to serve others was demonstrated in his time served in the US Navy aboard the USS Albany CA123. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Ribbon, Navy Occupational Medal, Good Conduct Medal and was a veteran of the Korean War.
Serving as an active member of the community, he formerly served as the City Manager of Belhaven, NC, as an area director of a United Way for the western region of NC, and was also a director of the Rowan County United Way. Mr Ralston was a former President of the Beaufort County Chapter of the East Carolina Alumni Association. He was also a former member of the Rotary and National Exchange Club. In Mt. Pleasant, SC, he organized and established a Kiwanis Chapter where he was the former President and later an active member of various chapters throughout his life. Former South Carolina Governor Richard Riley appointed him to serve on the Substance Abuse Commission, where he proudly served several terms, he was also a former drug and alcohol rehab counselor in SC.
Mr. Ralston was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church of Salisbury.
Survivors: Mr. Ralston is survived by his wife Elizabeth Ramsay Ralston whom he married April 19, 1952. One son John Ralston (Donna) of Albemarle. Three daughters Mary Sherman and husband Byron of Salisbury, Betsy Blank and husband Wayne of Rockwell, and Patricia Bartley and husband Charlie of Indian Trail. One sister Mrs. Elizabeth Moore of Raleigh. 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Service: A graveside service will be held on Wednesday April 7, 2010 at 10 a.m. at the Salisbury National Cemetery, Statesville Blvd. location conducted by the Rev. Cecelia C. Schroeder, assistant rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Memorials may be made to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 131 West Council Street, Salisbury, NC 28144.
Powles Funeral Home of Rockwell is assisting the Ralston family. Online condolences may be made at www.powlesfuneralhome.com.
Paid Obituary