Ralph F Darr Jr.

He was born August 16, 1931, in St. Louis, Missouri to parents Melba Ruth (Greene) and Ralph Frank Darr, Sr. Ralph grew up in St. Louis and Kirkwood Missouri, where he was active in athletics, band, and church activities. Ralph attended school in St. Louis and Kirkwood Missouri and graduated from Kirkwood High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Southeast Missouri State College, his master’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis and his PhD from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. Ralph served in the US Army National Guard of Missouri and as a Reserve of the United States Army for several years until his honorable discharge in 1957. On December 21, 1957, Ralph married the love of his life, Alice Dozier.

Ralph moved to northeast Ohio in 1968 after having taught high school in Illinois and Missouri and at the college level at the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. He was a tenured professor at the University of Akron until his retirement in 1996.

After retiring, Ralph traveled and volunteered throughout the community. He spent many years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, the United Methodist Church of Kent, and at KSU commencement ceremonies. Ralph enjoyed participating in Silver Sneakers and in many social activities with friends and family. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church of Kent and was always willing to help others.

Ralph is survived by his two children: Nancy Sue (James T. Heacock) Darr of Franklin, TN, and William R. Darr of Kent, OH, and his brother-in-laws Charles Dozier of the Villages of Florida and David Lindsey (Annette) Dozier of St. Charles, MO. Ralph’s memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren: Jonathan Vernon (Whitney) Heacock, Benjamin James (Kate) Heacock, and Sarah Elizabeth (Adam Woods) Heacock; as well as his great-grandchildren: Celia Elizabeth Heacock, Lincoln Daniel Heacock. Arlo James Heacock, Luna Rachael Heacock, and Amelia Marie Heacock. He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph Frank Darr Sr. and Melba Ruth Darr and his wife Alice Darr.

Friends will be received on Monday May 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the United Methodist Church of Kent, 1435 E. Main St., Kent, OH. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM. Reverend Nathan Howe will officiate the service. Interment will follow at Standing Rock Cemetery in Kent followed by a luncheon at the United Methodist Church of Kent.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the United Methodist Church of Kent or a charity of your choice.