1959-2025
Ralph Elwood Melvin, Jr., 66, of rural East Liberty, was called home to his Lord on Friday morning, November 21, 2025. He passed away at his home following a long battle with colon cancer.
Ralph was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on October 20, 1959, to the late Patricia Ann (Mills) Melvin and Ralph Elwood Melvin, Sr.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Cindy (Frost) Melvin, whom he married on April 7, 1979. He is also survived by children: Nick (Alli) Melvin of Rushsylvania, Jackie (Brock) Ridder of Zanesfield, and Julie (Isaac) Akins of Zanesfield; 5 grandchildren: Lucas and Cassidy Melvin, Grayson Ridder, Melanie and Bennett Akins; a sister Layna (Jeff Fruth) Melvin of Colorado; step-siblings: Vickie (Michael) Smith of Hilliard, and Caryn (Brian) Enderle of Powell; his step-mother Mary Ann Melvin of Powell; and several nieces and nephews.
Ralph loved his family, his wife, kids, and their spouses, grandkids, extended family, and friends. He was a 1977 graduate of Worthington High School and began working at Stanley Steemer. This led to a 45-year career with Stanley Steemer International; it wasn’t just a job – it was his passion and another family he was devoted to and loved deeply.
Ralph was an avid outdoorsman; fishing, hunting, gardening, boating, cutting firewood, and anything outdoors touched his soul. He shared this love with his kids, family, friends, and his Stanley Steemer family.
Ralph enjoyed his life and always acknowledged how deeply blessed he was. We were all blessed to have had him in our lives.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 2-4 pm at Rushsylvania Church of Christ, 170 E. Mill St., Rushsylvania, Ohio, where Pastor Ben Moore will lead Ralph’s celebration of life service at 4 pm. Casual attire is requested, and the family invites you to join them following the service for a meal and time to share your memories and stories of Ralph.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER, BELLEFONTAINE, is honored to serve the Melvin family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.eichholtzdaring.com.
