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1940 - 2009
 Ralph Denver "Coach" May, 69, of Barboursville, WV, formerly of Milton, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2009. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2009, at Steele Memorial United Methodist Church by Rev. Bob Bondurant and Rev. Jim Plyburn. Burial will be in Woodmere Memorial Park. He was born January 28, 1940, in Logan County, WV, a son of the late Glenn and Mary Anna Vannatter May. Ralph was raised on Limestone Branch and Big Ugly. He attended a one room school for six years and graduated from Chapmanville High School where he excelled in all sports, and was recently inducted into the Chapmanville Sports Hall of Fame. He was a graduate of Marshall University where he was co-captain of the football and wrestling teams, and a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. He was quarterback of the football team and was inducted into the Marshall University Athletic Hall of Fame and received the Distinguished Service Award from the Alumni Association for his service to the University. Upon graduation from Marshall, Coach May taught and coached football and wrestling at Chesapeake (Ohio), Huntington High and Troy (Ohio) High Schools. He began his 29 year career in Columbus, Ohio, working with Nationwide Insurance and retired as Regional Vice President in Raleigh, NC. Following his retirement, he fulfilled his life long dream by returning to Marshall football serving as assistant football coach and assistant chaplain with his former teammate and close friend, Bobby Pruett. He eventually took the job of Executive Director of the Big Green Scholarship Foundation and remained on the Board of Directors. Coach May organized the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Marshall, an organization now in most high schools in the tristate area. While at MU, Ralph organized the M Club for all former athletes and served as its president for seven years, remaining on its Board of Directors. Most recently, Ralph was an agent for Old Colony Realty, retiring in March, 2008. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy H. May and his sister, Sandra Bright. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Judy Hinerman May; two daughters, Angela May Myers and her husband, Jeff of TN, and Kellianne May Montague and her husband, David of TN; one son, Jeffrey Kent May and his wife, Tina of NC; two brothers, Bobby May and his wife, Dotty and Ronnie May; grandchildren, Brianna May, Preston Myers, Peyton Myers, May Montague, Annie Montague, Ruthie Montague, Mary Van Montague and Ryan Peddycord; his mother-in-law, Anna Marie Hinerman and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Ralph May endowed scholarship fund, C/O M Club, P. O. Box 1360 Marshall University, Huntington, WV, 25715, Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House of Huntington, P. O. Box 464, Huntington, WV 25709, or the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, P. O. Box 346, Barboursville, WV 25504 . Friends may call Thursday, May 21, 2009, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Steele Memorial United Methodist Church. Wallace Funeral Home, Barboursville, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
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There are currently 46 condolences.
Thielen and Gail Smith
Friday June 12, 2009 at
12:34 PM
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of loss. Ralph May welcomed us to Hungtington, WV with the warmth and kindness that made us feel truly welcome. We will remember the twinkle in his eye and the smile that lit up the room. He was a shining star who touched our hearts and who will be dearly missed.
The Smith Family
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Janet Hinerman
Wednesday June 3, 2009 at
1:06 PM
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To my big(little sister) Judy and her precious childern, my heart goes out to each of you in a special way. I know behind every good man is a great and strong woman,wife,especially Mother to their children,and grandchildren. Ralph and Judy both were a team, althought he earned the Praise of a great coach on and off the field...Judy was always and forever Ralphs Coach always. The bond of mutual love and respect drew a bond each of us can learn from. I will miss Ralph he was always there for me even when we did not agree, yes behind closed doors we all have our moments. Now we move forward as Ralph always encouraged..he would share The Peace That passes all understanding.I know Judy will and I love you Judy and admire you for your continued spiritual insight and understanding. Ralph boldly fulfilled his divine destiny only and always I know because U were always at his side. Luv Ya..Janet Lynn
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Mary and Dan Ellis
Friday May 29, 2009 at
4:27 PM
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Judy,Jeff,Angie,Kelly and families,
Our deepest sympathy to your family. We have lost a great man, who loved life and lived with so much zest. He loved you and the family so much. I know you had so many friends because your family touched so many in the communities that you lived. Please forgive us for not being able to come out for the service. I would have loved to hsve given this message in person.
Judy, my heart is heavy for you and the family. You will miss your best friend. Love, Mary and Dan
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Betty Cashdollar
bjc449@hotmail.com
Thursday May 28, 2009 at
1:11 PM
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In 2006, Ralph took the time, to show me at least 20 homes for sale. He was so kind, polite and honest in his profession as a realtor. He talked about the Lord and Jesus shined through his eyes and his inner soul. I never saw him again, after his helpful two days of showing me property, but the memory of hi wisdom, honesty and love for God and his family, will be forever remembered. God be with his wife, children, friends and family throughout this difficult time. My husband died in 2000, a christian as Ralph. One promise we as Christians have is, we will all meet again in Heaven. God Bless.
Betty Cashdollar
Huntington, WV
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Mike Ogden
Tuesday May 26, 2009 at
3:27 PM
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Judy,
I did not get to tell you this last week and intended to but time was short. When I talked to Mary Krabacker after the wedding last week, she told me that she and David were sitting on her back porch Sat night 5/16 around 6-7 pm. There was a short cloud burst then the sun shone through the clouds. She told David unknowingly what time Morgans wedding was or what time Ralph passed that "Someone is either getting Married or is passing into Heaven" Little did she know she was right both times. We love you and will never forget Ralph and you and all of the times we had together.
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Ryan Peddycord
peddy880@yahoo.com
Monday May 25, 2009 at
11:44 AM
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To Judy and the family I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Ralph was a great man who always treated me as if I were one of his own grandchildren and he will be remembered and missed.
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SONNY PIERCE
sonnyp41@yahoo.com
Saturday May 23, 2009 at
10:21 AM
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Dear Judy; Words can not experss the gratitude we all have of your be loved Ralph. He was so special in so many ways. He loved to give to all no matter who it was.His team mates loved him, God bless you for being at his side.
Man kind wil miss him he gave so much too us all
GOD BLESS; SONNY AND JOYCE PIERCE
2067 OLD DAYTONA RD
PORT ORANGE FL 32128
MRASHALL #64
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Chuck Kinder
Friday May 22, 2009 at
9:53 AM
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Ralph was such an encouragement to me as I ministered to The Marshall Football team at pregame chapel services. He always was filled with excitement about the love of Christ in his life and family. I am so sorry I cannot be with his family today as they celebrate Ralph's homegoing. Ralph was a great blessing to me and so many others. Numbers 6:24-26.
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Frank Goldbach
Friday May 22, 2009 at
8:59 AM
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Dear Judy and family,
A very sad day for us but a great one for those waiting for him above. Ralph was a special person with a very special talent called compassion. His inspiration and motivation has guided me in many ways since my working for him in North Carolina.
Let today be a memory of all the good Ralph brought to our lives.
May God bless each of you.
With great memories I remain,
very truly your,
Frank
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Lynda Byrd Wyant,HHS Class of 1959
Friday May 22, 2009 at
8:17 AM
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Judy, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray God and wonderful memories will help you get through this. Lynda
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Scott Bennett
Friday May 22, 2009 at
8:14 AM
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Ralph was one of the greatest men I ever knew. Always had time for all who needed it. I can't ever remember a time where he didn't have a smile or a laugh and kind word. Ralph and Judy have touches so many lives, I am truly grateful mine was one of them. It is difficult these days to find people who genuinely care about other people. Ralph genuinely cared and loved all. Judy, I know you will miss your best friend. We all will. God blessed us with both of you. I am so sorry I cant' be there at this time. Ralph was a great influence on me. As I cry these tears of selfishness, I know now that Heaven has another angel and is a better place. Judy, i know you will keep that smile going. I love you guys. Scott
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Susie Porterfield and family
sport_22@bellsouth.net
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
9:37 PM
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Dear Aunt Judy, Jeff, Angie & Kelli
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know that this will be very difficult, saying goodbye to your dear husband and father. Just know that he is watching over each of you while he sits with Pop-0, probably drinking coffee or playing football. Try to be strong and bring something positive out of this very sad time, as I'm sure that he would want that for each of you. As Judy so elequently put it "celebrate the living". Uncle Ralph was so dear to so many prople. He will be remembered for all that he has done for others, and for the example he has portrayed, in such a positive manner. I love my uncle Ralph, for the house is TOGETHER, both here on earth, and in heaven. I love all of you so much!! I am praying for your strength.
Lots of love and many Hugs and kisses,
Susie
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Rosemary Braley
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
6:03 PM
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Ralph was all about living life to the fullest. I will never forget when he spoke at the Old Colony Realtors banquet just over a year ago. Love, Integrity, Forgiveness, and Enthusiasm...LIFE!
He didn't preach it as much as he lived it! He will be sadly missed by so many.......Rosemary Braley
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Carroll and Patty Justice
juspat@comcast.net
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
4:21 PM
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Judy, we are so very sorry. Ralph was truly a unique individual and one that everyone loved. He will be missed by all who knew him. He touched so many lives.
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Emily Sue Buckberry
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
3:05 PM
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Happy Trails, dear Ralph. . .
You were so loved by so many.
My sincerest sympathies to Judy and family,
Emily Sue
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Cindy McDaniel
mcdanic7@nationwide.com
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
2:25 PM
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I had the great honor of working with Ralph while he worked in the SOCRO Memphis region. What an inspiration that man was to each of us in the office and to the agents he worked with. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your family during this difficult time.
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Vicki White-niece-Rockmart Ga
RSVHhite@Gmail.com
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
1:18 PM
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My dear aunt JuJu I could never express all the love and gratitude I feel for you and Ralphy for your years of kindness and caring to my sister Subucoo and I.Your family was our rock when our foundation was unsure.Your faith was an example of lessons for life.And your love continues to be all I stive for as a wife and parent.You all mean so very much to my family and I.My heart truly aches for the loss of such an angel on earth but I feel blessed to have been touched by the love that was all Ralph.Ronnie is sure he is playing "cloud football" with Pop-Po and others as we grieve here on earth,I'm sure his insight is right on target."OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES"I'm so grateful for our recent visit with you both,life rarely provides us with a chance to say goodbye.My boys comfort and cry with me as we remember our wonderful Ralph and thank God in his wisdom for the peace he provides.As my son often reminds me of Uncle Ralph's advice "Keep it in the middle of the road" until we gather together again.All our love and prayers to you,we hope to see you again soon JuJu!:)xoxoxo Love,ToriDor:)
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Vicki White-niece-Rockmart Ga
rsvwhite@gmail.com
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
11:28 AM
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A true football hero with his very own cheerleader,By his side throughout life he always would keep her.A growing family,career and unwavering faith,So inspiring to watch the journey theyd take.A loving husband and father A mentor and friend,So devoted and loyal,truly humble to the end.Encouraging,supportive and one of a kind,Another man of his equal youd be hard pressed to find.Celebrating life and his lord,even challenging health,If asked of any riches hed say here was his wealth.He never took credit for his effect on us all,His insperation to others was large and both small.Though the door he did answer when our lord came to call,On these words that I pen heartfelt tears they do fall.For everyone saying goodbye can be so hard to do,A true blessing he was to all that he knew.This man that I speak of taught what life was about,Ill forever love you and miss you my dear UNCLE RALPH.:(xoxoxo VLW 2009
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Thursday May 21, 2009 at
10:46 AM
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Raamie Barker
raamie.barker@wvsenate.gov
Thursday May 21, 2009 at
9:16 AM
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Judy and family, there are no words to adequately express my sadness upon the news of the loss of my friend and classmate, Ralph May. In Chapmanville, as well as other places, but especially in our hometown, Ralph is legendary, as was his brother Jimmy. Being a younger student when Ralph played football at CHS he was THE person I looked up to...I always enjoyed his visits to the Capitol, seeing him at Marshall and one very special day getting to have lunch with him and Judy at their beautiful home in Barboursville. He was always an encouragement to me and I especially admired his quiet but deep Christian convictions and lifestyle. Ralph is truly a man for all seasons, and to lose him at such an early stage of his life is incredibly hard to take. I once heard that our tears is the interest we pay for the loan from God of those we love. There will be many shed and the grief will take a long time to heal, but I have the supreme confidence that he is now in the company of a great host of saints before the throne of God enjoying the great reward for his unwavering faith and service to God. He is with Shag and others through sports now reunited forever, awaiting our own home going where nothing but victory after victory will be enjoyed. I will never forget him, or the great and positive impact he has had on my life. I owe him a debt I cannot repay, except to try to continue to do as he did with his life and that is to share his love and respect for others and be willing to share the gospel of Christ Jesus with any who would be willing to listen. God bless you and farewell my friend, until we meet again. Raamie
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Russell and Judy Fellure
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
9:06 PM
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Judy and Family,
While I prayed daily for a special healing miracle for Ralph here on this earth - it was evident that God had something much better for him. He gave him the ultimate healing and sent him to learn all about Heaven from Harold. You were so blessed Judy to have two such terrific men in your life. Russell rarely says this, but when he referred to Ralph, he always said, "He is one super guy." That is the highest compliment that one can receive.
We truly love all of you as family, and are sharing in your pain and feeling already the emptiness that will surround our family reunions with yet another one missing. However, I know Harold is rejoicing with him now.
Will be praying Judy for your strength and comfort through the next several weeks and months, and that God will send happy memories to fill your days.
Love Russell and Judy
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Jean Ray
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
9:02 PM
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Judy and family may you find comfort in knowing others kenw and loved Ralph and now grieve with you over his death. Yet, when we visit our memories of Ralph as a teenager, as a happy groom and as a proud father for the first time we smile and our hearts feel some joy. Although I was not with you and the family over the years, when you visited Chapmanville it was "hug time". Judy, the way you embraced Chapmanville demonstrated the love and respect you had for Ralph and what he cherished about his hometown and you too became one of ours. His legacy will reflect some thoughts from the Bible "...he will rest from his labor but his work will continue". May you find strength in knowing many hold you and yours in their thoughts and prayers.
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Chris, Lavana, and Brianna Harvey
cdharvey@fsu.edu
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
8:23 PM
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Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach May and his family. Coach May was a great asset to the Southern West Virginia area and will be greatly missed. If it had not been for the University of Miami (FL), Marshall would have been home for me and that would have been solely due to the work of Coach May.
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Nancy Cohen Tarbis
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
4:27 PM
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Dear Judy and family, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and yours at this sad time. Always know, that which brings us sadness; once brought us joy. Cherish all that was yours. It is a part of you.
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Al & Linda Thurston Rinehart
rinehartl@brevard.k12.fl.us
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
4:04 PM
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Dear Judy and Family,
Al and I send our condolences on Ralph's passing. We know he's in a much better place and is reunited with his brother and sister. We wish your family peace and wonderful memories of the great guy that he was. May you be surrounded by the love and prayers of those whose lives he touched in so many positive ways.
Al & Lyn Rinehart
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Dawn Adams
dladams@shelbycs.k12.in.us
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
3:35 PM
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My heartfelt sympathy goes out to your family. My father was very fond of Ralph,(Chapmanville High School football coach, Shag Barker) as was my mother.He will be sadly missed by our family. God Bless, Dawn Adams (former Art teacher at Milton Elementary)
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John Finlayson
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
3:25 PM
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Please know of my sincere sorrow in the passing of Coach. Having met him through my relationship with FCA, he had a profound impact on me and everyone he touched with his witness and encouragement. I have been blessed by his walk and thoughts shared by Chet Marshall in his continuous updates. I am always uplifted as I relect on the words he shared: "I win either way".
God Bless you all as we know his victory in Christ is now complete.
John Finlayson
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Cheryl Hinerman
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
2:00 PM
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For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Judy, I just want you to know I'll be lifting you and your family up in prayer. Remember God loves you, He's crazy about you, and He will see you through this! Love, Cheryl Hinerman
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JAMIE CHAPMAN & FAMILY
jlccountrygirl82@yahoo.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
1:56 PM
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Judy May & family I am so sorry to hear about the lost i will miss him. He was always so happy no matter what the day was like. He always tried to talk to everyone who went pass his house and if he meet you on the road he never forgot to throw up his hand. I truely will miss him. He was one of the nices people i have meet.
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Ron Sperance
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
1:47 PM
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Judy,it has been years since we have seen or talked you and Ralph. That doesn't mean you haven't been in our thoughts and prayers. We remember fondly our times together in Memphis.
Connie and I were sorry to hear of Ralph's illness and passing. Our thoughts and prayers continue for you and your family.
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aster1@nationwide.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
1:37 PM
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My e mail address should be aster1@nationwide.com Can you correct.. Ralph May condolence
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Amy Bender Hamby and family
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
1:09 PM
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I was blessed to be able to spend a short precious time recently to reminise with my dear Artie (Ralphie) May. I needed to thank him for being a dad to me during a time when my own dad wasn't. He listened, denied his greatness, and passed on "Ralphisms" to me and my daughter, Corey May (named of course for the family). He was a kind, gentle, wise, God-fearing, family-loving, fun-loving, hard-bodied, not to mention handsome man. Sorry Judy, I had to get that in. I was priveliged to know him and his whole family. They took me in as one of their own. I cried for a long,long time when they left me in Hagerstown, Maryland. His dear wife, Judy, was definitely the woman behind the great man. She was and is the rock of the family. I could never repay her for being my mom, when my mom wasn't one. I will forever be in debt to Mr. May for all he did for me. God bless sweet Judy, Jeff, Angela, Kelli, and whole family as they deal with the loss of a giant of a man in all of our lives. Thank you allowing me to be a part of your lives. I love you all.
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Orville Dingess and Family
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
12:46 PM
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Our thoughts are with you and your family .May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish .Ralph was not only a friend and classmate,but a wonderful man.
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Forrest DJones
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
11:38 AM
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Judy:
Its been many years since the "West end" but please know you are in our prayers.
Forrest Jones
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Bill & Sarah Aster
asterw12nationwide.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
11:14 AM
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Judy and family. There are no words to descirbe how much your family has meant to our family. Ralph gave me a chance to grow and become a man. He was a great teacher and leader and always set the example for greatness. Even though we new his greatness he was always a humble man. The man from "Big Ugly" will always be in our hearts. God is happy today because he has a new quarterback on his team! A humble giant has gone home. We love him and you. Thanks for being our friends. Bill&Sarah Aster
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Jerry Gillen
pga@jgillen.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
11:01 AM
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My deepest condolances to all on the loss of this wonderful man. Ralph touched many people with his sense of generousity and fairness. The Legacy that Ralph left from a life time of being a decent, Christian man will certainly be the May descendents heritage. God bless you Judy and your family.
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Sibyl McNair
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
9:43 AM
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I am so sorry for your loss. Janet Lynn is a dear friend of mine and Prayer Partner and she has talked of Judy and Ralph so much.
Sibyl McNair
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Charles (Corky) Barnett
cbarnett002@nc.rr.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
9:09 AM
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Judy, I am so sorry for your loss. I really admired Ralph from the time I was in high school. It was nice to see you all again when you returned home and helped to develop the FCA ministry. He was a strong witness for Christ. You and your family are in my prayers.
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George and Sheila Templin
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
9:02 AM
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To Judy Sorry to hear about Ralph. You are in our prayers.Rememer lots of good things about Ralph. God Bless you and your family
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Jackie Hutchinson
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
8:55 AM
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Dear Judy and Family,
I was saddened to hear of Ralph's passing. My prayers are with you during your time of grief. May our Lord comfort you and keep you during the days and months to come. Jackie Hutchinson (Susie Allison Hutchinson's daughter)
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Tana Cooper and family
Ttana4lyfe@aol.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
8:09 AM
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JudyIam so sorry to hear Ralph's passing. He was a wonderful man and most of all a good christian man. He has no more pain And a new home in heaven with jesus. You are in my prayers love tana Cooper & family
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Lesa Nida
lnida@access.k12.wv.us
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
7:48 AM
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I am privileged to say that I knew Coach and could call him a friend. There is an emptiness that will never be filled in the Marshall Football Family. My prayers and love go out to Judy and the rest of his family. May you be in Heaven the friend you were on earth.
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Nancy Lawson
NLawson815@aol.com
Wednesday May 20, 2009 at
12:47 AM
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Judy, I am so very sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. He was always a delight to talk to (as are you). Please know that you are in my prayers. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel!!
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Morgan Ogden Burns & Clint
mbo1002@gmail.com
Tuesday May 19, 2009 at
9:45 PM
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To Judy and Angie, Kelly, Jeff & Family,
We wanted to let you know how sorry we are for you but rejoice for Ralph is in a better place with no suffering. We wish we could be there to remember the wonderful man this week but unfortunatley we are in St. Lucia on the honeymoon. Ralph has left a legacy that you all should be proud of! I know we are proud of the fact we were touched by his legacy and knew him and loved him so. The memories we all have of Ralph will live on forever. From Barton Creek Rd (pink barbie corvette, Monday dog, the endless years) to Greystone and of course the most recent memories we have together ECU vs Marshall football games and Baxter's wedding in Sept. We will always be able to remember Ralph's smile and laugh and of course who could forget how he made you feel like you were the only person in the world when he was talking to you. Our hearts break for you all and sometimes even for ourselves as we grieve during this challenging time. We can't wait to see him in Heaven when we all are going to be reunited in love(even though we still might cheer for different teams)! Love you guys<3 Morgan & Clint
"Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die." Isaiah 57:1-2
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Mike & Nancy Cobb
Tuesday May 19, 2009 at
8:38 PM
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I can't say enough good things about Ralph & Judy May. He was a superlative man & we are deeply saddened by his death. Please accept our sincere condolences. He's a man I won't forget.
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Shanee' Holmes-Moore
Tuesday May 19, 2009 at
8:08 PM
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I will miss you Coach May. You were such a blessing to me and so many at Marshall. You had a beautiful spirit and I will never forget you. Much Love, Shanee'
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