Obituary of Ralph Eugene Lewis

Ralph Eugene Lewis born September 23, 1929, passed away on May 24, 2024, at the age of 94 with his loving family by his side.

Ralph was born in Gridley, California to Jess and Angie Lewis. He spent his childhood helping his family on their Meyers Avenue dairy farm. After graduating from Gridley Union High School, he joined his father as a dairyman. At the age of 22, he married Jessie Gibbs of England. He served in the Army from 1954-1956 and continued as an Army Reservist until 1962. During his service Ralph and Jessie had two children, Dianne and Barry. A few years later, he took a job with the City of Gridley and dedicated his service to them for over 30 years before retiring in 1994.

Ralph was a devoted and loving husband, father, brother, and papa. He enjoyed life and time spent with family and friends. Numerous trips to Fort Bragg and England, as well as across the states and overseas included sightseeing adventures, fishing, hunting, and of course University of Notre Dame football games. Our family will always remember the wonderful times we spent together and will treasure those memories forever.

Preceded in death by his parents, Jess and Angie Lewis and his son Barry Lewis. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 72 years, Jessie Lewis, daughter Dianne Gerst (Rick), 4 grandsons: Derek Lewis (Kelly), Brian Lewis, Kevin Gerst (Christine), Chad Gerst (Stefanie), 7 great-grandchildren: Brittany, Bently, Joshua, Cali, Harper, Connor, and Hudson; Sister, Margaret Castro (Bert), and niece Chrisie (Rick).

Our family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Sutter Health Hospice staff and their outstanding nurse Gurpreet, and the caring and supportive staff at The Gardens in Yuba City, California.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.