Ralph was born January 19, 1929 in Fuquay-Varina, NC to the late Paul A. Keith and Annie Walters Keith. He was a graduate of Campbell College High School and was employed as a service technician at AM International, retiring with over 42 years of service. In retirement, Ralph continued serving his community at the Apex Cleaning Company and Apex Funeral Home, where he was a valued and faithful member of the staff. He was a member of St. John's Masonic Lodge #4 in Kinston, where he was a past master and active member for over 60 years. He was raised to the sublime degree of master mason in 1957. Ralph was also a member of the Sudan Shrine. He enjoyed playing Rook at the Rook House every Thursday evening and was instrumental in maintaining the 70 year tradition in Apex. He was also a member of Apex Baptist Church, where he was active in the Christian Fellowship Sunday school class and also served as deacon.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Tom, Ernest and Cecil; and sisters, Elizabeth Brennan and Rachel his twin.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mary Edythe Baker Keith; son, Ralph Gordon Keith, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Macie Keith, Betty Oxendine and Rachel Baker and many loving nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service will be held 11am Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at Apex Baptist Church, 110 S. Salem Street, Apex, NC 27502. The family will receive friends 10am - 11am prior to the service and other times at the home.
Memorials may be made to Wake County EMS, Transitions Lifecare Hospice or Apex Baptist Church.
Condolences may be sent to www.ApexFuneral.net
