Ralph E Overly

October 2, 1935—-January 5, 2024

Ralph was the second son (George was the first) born in 1935 to Allan Edgar Overly and Eleanor Bailey Overly in rural western Ohio. The family later moved to south western Pennsylvania to Bridgewater Pennsylvania where Ralph’s father “Al” was employed at the Keystone Bakery for many years. Ralph attended Rochester High School where he was on the Track and Football teams. During the summers he worked at the bakery to make money to go to college. When he graduated High School he enrolled at Thiel College in Greenville Pa. There he was on the football team as a running back. While there he and Margaret Anne Measel met and soon married. Ralph graduated with a degree in Chemistry and he and Margaret (Peggy) returned to Beaver Falls where he gained employment at Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. Soon Ralph and Peggy’s first child was born (Ralph Alan) and two years later their second child was born (Dale Renwood).

Around 1958 Ralph was able to put his Chemistry degree to work and was hired by Armstrong Cork Co. in Pensacola Florida and the family relocated to Pensacola. Ralph worked in the company’s laboratory as a Paint Chemist. The company later changed its name to Armstrong World Industries and was providing acoustical ceiling tile technology and this is where Ralph was instrumental in developing the needed paint coatings for the new industry. While in Pensacola some of the leisure activities for the family included visiting Pensacola Beach and doing some shelling. There were also family trips back to visit relatives in Pennsylvania and summer vacations around Florida. While working at Armstrong Ralph played Industrial League Basketball and Fast Pitch Softball. The family attended Grace Lutheran Church on N. 9th Ave. for many years where Ralph was the church’s Treasurer and was on the Usher Team.

In the 1970’s the family moved to Gulf Breeze and began to attend Good Shepherd Lutheran Church where Peggy played the organ and piano. Ralph served the Church in many capacities. During the 80’s Ralph was able to retire and he and Peggy started traveling around the USA with Peggy’s brother Don and his wife Judy. Several years later Ralph and Peggy became members of the Panhandle British Car Club where they had a lot of fun going to events and making many new friends. During that time Ralph owned a 1961 Triumph TR3 and then a 1969 MGC GT. One of their favorite pastimes was participating with the Good Shepherd Supper Club and Bunco Parties. He was also a loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan and enjoyed the games on tv when he could.

Ralph and Peggy enjoyed more than 57 years of marriage and they leave behind two sons, Ralph A. Overly and Dale R. Overly and their families: Tish (Ralph) Overly, Patty (Dale) Overly and three grandchildren: Evan Overly, Claire Overly and Sam Overly, wife Bethany Overly, and two great grandchildren: Jack Overly and Will Overly.

Ralph was a great father and he and Peggy led full lives with lots of happiness and memories. It is comforting to know Dad is now back with Mom and their happiness can continue. Ralph will be missed especially by his family but also by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to your local Diabetes foundation or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.