Ralph Edward Young

Ralph Edward Young, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 77. A true local, Ralph was born on August 25, 1948, in Nashville and graduated from West End High School in 1967.

From an early age, Ralph discovered a passion for racing cars and working beneath their hoods. At 15, he began racing figure eight stock cars at the Nashville Fairgrounds, Sulphur Dell Speedway, and Huntsville Speedway. A natural tinkerer, his passion for engines was legendary. He proudly raced under the number 21 for more than a decade and soon became a trusted resource for engine tune-ups, repairs, and advice for fellow racers. The sounds of roaring engines often echoed from his workshop late into the evening, and his craftsmanship frequently resulted in faster lap times and purse winnings. This deep love of cars and mechanics was passed down to his children.

Ralph was an enterprising Nashville businessman who owned and operated several laundry businesses throughout his career. He was a co-owner of Village Cleaners on Acklen Avenue, where its illuminated sign remains a visible landmark above Hillsboro Village today. Ralph also owned and operated Sunshine Laundromat on 21st Avenue and Village Laundromat on Acklen Avenue.

In retirement, Ralph loved working with his hands, taking on projects like building his own personal brewery and hydroponic garden. When he wasn’t in the garage, he was often in the kitchen, beer in hand, relaxing with his cat, Kirby. He enjoyed weekend trips with his wife, especially visits to his mother’s hometown of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Edna Young. He is survived by his beloved wife, Therese Young; his children, Caleb (Felice) Young, Scott Young, Jarrett (Sheila) Young, and Walter (Beth) Smith; his grandchildren, Isla Young, Lydia Young, Everett Smith, and Otto Young; his sister, Sheila (Carl) Hendricks; and his nephews, Mark Hendricks and Carl Hendricks Jr.

Ralph was a rare blend of imposing presence and immediate warmth. A true gentle giant, his large stature was always paired with an open heart and a welcoming embrace. Even in his final days, he remained deeply loving and attentive, making time to joke, laugh, and connect with his children and grandchildren. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, ingenuity, and unwavering devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.