Ralph Abercia

Ralph was born on August 24,1923 in Houston Texas to Lebanese immigrant parents Libbie Faour Abercia and Tofie Roy Abercia. He attended Jeff Davis High School and upon graduation enlisted in the Army Airforce. He served in World War II from 1941 to 1945 as a member of the 303 Bombardier Group out of Molesworth England. The 303 earned the Distinguished Unit Citation for successfully destroying an aircraft assembly plant at the German town of Oschersleben. Serving In World War II as his greatest pride.

After his discharge in 1945, Ralph used the GI Bill to secure a law degree from the South Texas Law School with an undergraduate from the University of Houston. He practiced law in Houston for 50 years. In legal circles Ralph was known as “the silver tongue”. No attorney wanted to go against him in court as they knew Ralph closing arguments were always winners.

As a child that grew up in the Great Depression, he knew poverty, he knew what it was to be hungry, and these life challenges motivated him to greatness. What would hinder others propelled Ralph to achieve his highest potential, to give back to his family, his community, his country and his faith.

Ralph served on the Board of Trustee of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Houston Board of Realtors; American Task Force; State Bar of Associations; Houston Trial and Plaintiff Association; Arab American Businessman’s Association; Aid to Leukemia-Stricken Children; Better Education for Rice University; South Texas College Alumni, St. George Church, and the Antiochian Archdiocese Board.

His greatest love was serving on the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Board of Trustees. He served in many positions over his 70-year tenure and still holds an emeritus position today. His service included Chairman of the National Board of Trustees for 4 years, Chairman of St. Ignatius for many years, Laison for the Antiochian Camp, and Priest Endowment Fund. Ralph received many honors from the Archdiocese including its highest award, the Gold Antonio Award. He has also been very dedicated to his Church, St. George; from helping to purchase and locate the land the Church is presently built on, to serving on the Board for over 60 years, in many capacities including Chairman; always raising money for whatever the Church needed.

Ralph received many civil Proclamations and keys from cities and states across this great nation as well as from other countries. He has helped many organizations raise needed funds such as St. George’s Hospital in Lebanon, Kahlil Gibran Foundation in Washington D.C. Rice University Chair for Arabic Studies, Muscular Dystrophy, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and The Mediterranean Festival.

Another one of Ralph’s loves was the Southern Federation of Syrian Lebanese American Clubs. He was an integral part of the growth of this organization for 70 years. He served in every capacity, as President, Vice President and Chairman of the Board. His love for his heritage, culture and zest for this 94 year old organization was and is unsurpassed.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife Mary Adelene Shawhean Abercia, his children Sharon Abercia, her husband John Evans, Sandra Abercia Bucaram and her husband Arturo, Mary Kathryn Adel, and Ralph Abercia, his brothers, Louis Abercia and George Abercia, 9 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and close friends that are family to Ralph. We will all miss him so very much.

On August 24, 2025, we will celebrate his first heavenly birthday where he will turn 102. We know Dad is dancing in Heaven. May His Memory Be Eternal

What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is woven in the lives and hearts of others. Ralph touched many lives with genuine love, kindness, understanding, generosity, he was an example of God’s unconditional love. When Ralph was in the room you knew you were loved.

In lieu of flowers the family has set up a fund in honor of Ralph Abercia - St. George Orthodox Fellowship Activity Center Fund. If you wish to make a donation, please Zelle to [email protected]

In addition, a Scholarship Fund has been set up with the Southern Federation of Syrian Lebanese American Clubs in honor or Ralph Abercia if you wish to donate please make checks payable to Southern Federation Foundation and mail to Foundation Scholarship Committee c/o Bretagne Abirached 2501 Loyola Lane Austin Texas 78723 or go to website SFSLAC.org then go to the Scholarship tab.

In Loving Memory of Ralph Abercia:

A Eulogy for a Legendary Life Celebrating 102 Years of Faith, Love, and Leadership

Ralph Abercia was a truly legendary and visionary man, gracing this world for 102 remarkable years—a life defined from the very beginning by purpose and unwavering integrity. His boundless love and deep thoughtfulness touched everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. Ralph was a guiding light to many—a devoted family man, a pillar of his church, and an inspiration to all who knew him.

I first met Ralph in 1997, shortly after I arrived in Houston, at one of our St. George Church festivals. True to his character, he welcomed me with such warmth and kindness that I immediately felt a genuine connection with him—a feeling that stayed with me from that very first moment. Over the years, we shared many moments as fellow members of the Fellowship Charity Club and the Southern Federation of Syrian Lebanese Americans, and each time he greeted me with his signature smile and his familiar words, “let us get together.” His love for charitable causes, his community, and his heritage was always apparent in the way he gave of his time and heart so generously.

Later in life, I had the privilege of caring for Ralph as one of his doctors. He trusted me deeply, and I came to see firsthand the strength of his spirit. He was a remarkably positive patient—full of will, grace, and gratitude—overcoming serious prior ailments including prior cancers with an inspirational attitude toward life. He was always pleasant, always hopeful, and carried himself with the same dignity and kindness that defined every part of his life.

Ralph’s extraordinary gift was his unwavering ability to lift those around him. He led not through loud proclamations, but through the steady power of his example: a kind word offered when it was needed most, a thoughtful act that spoke volumes, a life marked by deep compassion, genuine thoughtfulness, and a grace that touched everyone he met. His wisdom was both gentle and profound, guiding generations and fostering deep connections among family and friends.

That same spirit of kindness and giving extended far beyond his inner circle. He brought a heart full of grace into every interaction, seeing potential and worth in people others might overlook. Ralph understood that life’s blessings were meant to be shared, and he gave of himself freely—whether comforting those in need, mentoring the young, or volunteering for charitable efforts. His legacy of generosity and thoughtfulness lives on in the countless lives he shaped for the better.

At St. George Orthodox Church, Ralph was a steadfast pillar, living with faith and compassion. His commitment to the church and its community was unwavering; his presence inspired others to embrace kindness, generosity, and grace. He never sought praise—but through his integrity, he earned the lasting respect of all. Whether through his thoughtful counsel or quiet acts of service, he uplifted and encouraged everyone around him—a true gift that touched many hearts. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues often spoke of his wisdom and charismatic character. He achieved deep respect throughout the community and the city, and over the years, he was recognized with several honors and awards from reputable organizations—acknowledgments that reflected not only the love and admiration so many felt for him, but also the remarkable achievements of his devoted life.

Ralph’s devotion to his family and faith defined his life. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a steady source of wisdom, compassion, and patience. Within his family, he cultivated an atmosphere of love that bound generations together and inspired everyone to live with the same kindness and integrity he embodied. His home was a haven, welcoming anyone in need of a listening ear, a warm meal, or simply the comfort of his gentle presence.

Ralph also had a joyful side that made every gathering brighter. He loved music and was a wonderful dancer—so much so that I often joked with him that at age 100, he was still the best dancer in the community, moving with a confidence and rhythm that amazed us all. He loved good food, especially the flavors of his Lebanese heritage: a plate of kibbeh, stuffed koussa, and fresh tabouleh, dishes that always brought him joy and pride. He also particularly delighted in oysters, which he enjoyed with the same enthusiasm. These simple joys were part of what made Ralph so memorable—he embraced life fully, with gratitude and delight in every moment.

Today, we gather to honor his memory, and celebrate his extraordinary legacy. While his absence leaves a deep ache in our hearts, the warmth and radiance of his memory remain ever-present. Now, as we say goodbye, we remember that grief is the measure of a love so deeply felt. We are grateful for Ralph’s 102 years—a life rich in experience, compassion, and faith. The memories we shared, the lessons he taught us, and the example he set will remain with us always. Let us carry his legacy forward by living each day with the same grace, dignity, and kindness that were the hallmarks of his extraordinary life. When we offer kindness to a stranger, support a friend in need, or greet each day with gratitude, we honor Ralph’s memory in the truest sense.

Rest in peace, dear Ralph. You are loved beyond words, missed beyond measure, and your remarkable legacy will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

Sending love and prayers to the Abercia family,

Dr. George Nassar