Ralph Thomas Newsome

Ralph Thomas Newsome led a blessed life defined by faith, curiosity, and steady kindness. He was husband, father, businessman, and friend to all. A lifelong Ohioan, Ralph died peacefully on January 2, 2026, after 94 years of loving devotion toward his family, friends, and fellow man.

Ralph was born in Youngstown, Ohio on November 14, 1931. He earned his B.A. at Mount St. Mary’s in 1955 with a concentration in philosophy and served in the Navy from 1955-1957. On April 4, 1959, he married his beloved Alice Grapentien, and they welcomed their son John on March 18, 1974. Ralph enjoyed a long and successful career in sales until his retirement in 1996. His private business interests were numerous as well. With Alice’s loving support, he held multiple rental properties and owned and operated Lakewood Racquet Club in Lakewood, Ohio.

Ralph was an athlete and a scholar. He served as teaching pro at his tennis club and was a gifted table-tennis player. He was an avid reader with interests spanning many fields, and he thoroughly enjoyed a good mystery or western novel. In addition to English, Ralph was fluent in Latin, Greek, and German, and he traveled extensively throughout his life. Most of all, he was a joy to know. His faith was quiet but deep. He was a natural optimist with a friendly word and a ready smile for everyone. If you met Ralph, it couldn’t help but brighten your day, and he loved nothing more than to share his newest joke, no matter how silly the punchline.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Alice Newsome; son John; sisters Mary Kay Knechtges and Carol Rosovitz; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Elise Newsome, and his sister Elaine Mahoney. A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on January 13, 2026, at St. Susanna Catholic Church at 616 Reading Rd., Mason Ohio. Father Bernie Weldishofer will officiate. Prior to mass, a viewing will be held for friends and family at 10:00 a.m. Flowers, donations, and condolences may be offered through St. Susanna.