Ralph Edward Porterfield

Norfolk - Ralph Edward Porterfield, 97, passed away on April 18, 2014. He was born in Staunton, VA on Aug. 4, 1916 to the late Charles and Bessie Porterfield. During WWII, Ralph proudly served his country in the US Navy on the USS LST-332. He was a 61 year member and past master of the Naomi Masonic Lodge #87. Ralph joined the Scottish Rite and the Knights of Templar. He was a dedicated member of the Khedive Shrine Temple, where he was a Past Captain of the Provost Guard Unit, participating for 43 years.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Carol Baughman and her husband Chris; granddaughter, Kelly Baumgardner and her husband Jady; grandson, Barrett Baughman; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Cathryn Porterfield.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at Smith & Williams Funeral Home, Norfolk Chapel. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Khedive Shrine Temple's transportation fund.

Ralph’s family would like to express thanks and gratitude to Bill and Mary West, Sharon Cannon, and the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their dedicated care and compassion.