Ralph Dean Van Pelt Jr.

Ralph was born in Gaston County on September 20, 1948, to the late Ralph Dean Van Pelt Sr. and the late Ade Verbinie Jordan. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his sister, Karen Lambert and her husband, Kenneth Lambert, as well as their grandson, Brandon Lambert.; Uncle, Bob Van Pelt and his aunt, Pat Van Pelt.

Ralph proudly dedicated three years of his life to serving our country in the United States Army, answering the call to serve with courage, honor, and commitment. His service took him through a defining chapter in our nation's history, the Vietnam War, where he stood among those willing to put their lives on the line in service to others. His military service was more than a chapter in his life; it was a reflection of the values he believed in: dedication, sacrifice, patriotism, and standing up for what is right. He understood the meaning of freedom and never took for granted the sacrifices made by those who fought to protect it.

One of the beliefs he held close to his heart was the importance of having a voice. He firmly believed that everyone should exercise their right to vote, stand up for what they believe in, and never be afraid to let their voices be heard. He wanted people to understand that their opinions mattered, their choices mattered, and their participation mattered.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Beverly Payseur Van Pelt; children, Zack Van Pelt and Courtney Van Pelt (Nathan Gortz); brother, Steve Van Pelt (Linda); sister, Susan Van Pelt Burkhart; as well as cousins, Dale Van Pelt (Hope), Scott Van Pelt (Rhonda), Pam Rankin (Scott); loving nieces and nephews, Neci Young (Matt), Nicky Burkhart, Ashley Van Pelt, Dean Lambert, Keith Lambert; mother and father in law, Barry and Ann Payseur; brother and sister in laws, Karen and Eddie Grant and their children, Jessica and Michael as well as Greg and Laurie Payseur and their children, Scott and Stacy Payseur; and his best friend, Jim Lanier (Pat).

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm at Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park, 2205 Williamsburg Dr., Gastonia, NC 28054. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately after at 3:00 pm.