Ralph Richardson Lister

Ralph Richardson Lister, 95, of Greeneville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, in the town he cherished as home. Born on December 9, 1929, in Greeneville, Ralph lived a life defined by hard work, love, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.

Raised in Greeneville, Ralph grew up on a beloved dairy farm where he spent his youth tending to the land and livestock he held dear. The farm was also home to the well-known and well-established Icy Dale Dairy on the Warrensburg Rd in Greeneville. He grew up riding on the back of the milk truck selling cream to the residents of Greene County. When Icy Dale sold the milk business to Pet Dairy, Ralph continued to work for 38 years for Pet Dairy. He often shared fond memories of his childhood, recounting long walks to school, football practices, and stopping for a milkshake before returning to farm chores. Those stories, told with a twinkle in his eye, brought joy to everyone around him and kept the spirit of his youth alive until his final day.

Ralph was a pillar of his community, where his generosity and leadership touched countless lives. As a rescue squad volunteer, he selflessly gave his time to serve others, and as a baseball coach, he mentored young boys with patience and enthusiasm, fostering their love for the game. His dedication to service was matched only by his passion for sports. An avid fan, Ralph cheered for the Tennessee Volunteers, especially under the legendary Pat Summitt, the Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees, Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls, and even followed hockey, tennis, golf, and bowling with infectious enthusiasm. His civic activities included being an avid believer in the mission of the Optimist Club.

Ralph’s heart belonged to his beloved wife of 63 years, Marie, who predeceased him. Their love was a testament to devotion, as Ralph gave up his home and job to join her in assisted living, ensuring they could share every moment. Together, they watched Braves games every night; their faith led them as members of Greeneville Cumberland Presbyterian church and after moving to Johnson City they attended Central Church of Christ.

Ralph was a Mason and a member of Greeneville Lodge #3 F.& A.M. He was also a Shriner and a member of the Kerbela Temple in Knoxville.

Ralph is survived by daughters Brenda (John) McKinnis of Johnson City, TN, and Gracie (Don) Jones of Knoxville, TN; grandchildren, Katie (Tim) Jenkins, Conor McKinnis, and Tyler Jones. Great grandchildren Ella, Ethan and Eamon Jenkins. Two brothers, Jimmy (Margie) Lister and William Lister. Nieces Jancie Painter and Cheryl Fillers. Several great nieces and nephews, especially Gabi Reynolds. As well as a community that will forever remember his kindness and warmth.

He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Marie Malone Lister, sisters: Betsy Lister, Mary Lister Dunn, and Martha Lister Reynolds and brother Lanny Lister.

Ralph’s legacy lives on in the stories of his dairy farm days, his ready smile and laughter, strong work ethic, and his love of God and family, and the crack of a bat on the fields he coached and played. The family invites all who knew him to share memories and celebrate a life well-lived, one that will inspire for generations.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 1- 2 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home. Mr. Tim Hall will officiate the funeral service at 2 p.m. Those wishing to attend the graveside service will proceed to GreeneLawn Memory Gardens immediately following the funeral service.

Pallbearers are Tyler Jones, Conor McKinnis, Dr. Tim Jenkins, Joe Lister, Todd Malone, John Tweed, Kellen Rice.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in honor of Ralph Lister to Gifts for Kids, PO Box 1672, Greeneville, TN 37744.