Ralph James Roberts entered this world on February 6, 1937, in Hartford, Connecticut, the beloved son of Homer Roberts and Doris (James) Roberts. He grew up primarily in Solon, Ohio, where his lifelong love of woodworking first took root and where he excelled on the wrestling mat. A four-year varsity letterman, Ralph went on to wrestle at Findlay College (now University of Findlay), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education and laying the foundation for a career devoted to teaching and mentoring young people.

Ralph began his professional life as a public-school science and biology teacher and as a coach for wrestling and football. While teaching in Muskegon, Michigan, he met fellow educator Adele Kinney. They married in 1971 and built a partnership marked by devotion and shared purpose. Two years later they welcomed their only child, Robert.

From 1973 to 1979 the family made their home in Whitehall, Michigan, where Ralph and Adele continued to teach and invest in their community. In 1980, seeking a new adventure, Ralph moved the family to Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, beginning a brief but memorable chapter as a boat builder and wooden sailboat repairman.

A pivotal turning point in Ralph’s life came in 1977, when—after a family tragedy and the faithful invitation of his wrestling coach—he and Adele placed their trust in Jesus Christ. They were baptized together by Pastor Jack McLean at the Church of the Open Door in Muskegon, marking the beginning of a steadfast walk of faith that would shape every subsequent season.

From 1982 to 1988 the family lived in Crystal Lake, Illinois, where Ralph taught at Irving Crown High School and remained active in coaching. In 1989 they returned to Michigan, settling in Montague. Ralph explored several occupations, including long-haul trucking, before finding his long-term role as a food inspector with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, a position he held until his retirement in 2004.

Retirement brought new adventures. Ralph and Adele moved to Kansas City, Missouri, in 2004 and later to the Knoxville, Tennessee, area in 2010, cherishing the opportunity to remain close to their son. Throughout his life Ralph delighted in woodworking, fishing, and collecting firearms, and he continued to share his love of craftsmanship and the outdoors with those around him.

Ralph will be remembered as a beloved teacher and coach whose humor, warmth, and accessibility touched generations of students and colleagues. He carried those same qualities into every personal relationship, where his gentle strength and ready smile left a lasting imprint.

Ralph is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Adele; his son, Bob; his brother, Jim; and his sister, Janice. He is preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Doris Roberts, and his beloved brother Richard.

Family and friends give thanks for Ralph’s rich legacy of faith, family devotion, and quiet service. Though his earthly journey has ended, his life testifies to the enduring hope found in Christ—a hope that is now his eternal reality.

The family will hold a service at Orchard View Baptist Church on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Bob Roberts officiating, burial will follow at 12:00 P.M. at Orchard View Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Ralph would have said, “Get into a good church!”

Sharp Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Roberts family during this time of need.