Ralph Donald Mathias, Sr., 86, passed away at the Brennity on December 31, 2021 in Melbourne, FL.

He was born April 8, 1935 in Mathias, WV to the late Agnes Mathias May.

Ralph served 22 years in the USAF retiring as Master Sergeant, and worked another 20 years at Cape Canaveral, FL before retiring.

Surviving children are Lorraine M. Clutteur, Harrisonburg, VA; Patricia M. McDorman, Harrisonburg, VA; Ralph D. Mathias, Jr. (Amanda), FL; Elizabeth Turko (David), FL; 6 grandchildren: 4 great grandchildren: sisters Carolyn (Jennings) Whetzel, Mathias, WV; Ann Weaver, PA; brother-in-law Bruce Hottinger, VA: sister-in-law Helen May, Mathias, WV: beloved cousins Carol Strawderman, Anita Rogers, Sam Detamore, Mathias, WV: and other extended family members.

In addition to his mother, his wife, Patricia Brown Mathias preceded him in death.  Also preceding him in death was Ann Detamore (cherished aunt): Kathleen Hottinger, sister:  Randall May, brother.

Ralph was a kind man with a tender gentle spirit.  He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and best big brother.  Ralph loved his family.  He traded his fishing boat for a camper and traveled with Pat to Colorado and West Virginia many times.  He enjoyed fishing at Port Canaveral, playing Skipbo, and cooking for others.

Sharon Sager Shumate, FL was by his side during the final days of his life.

Private services will be held at a later date in WV.