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Ralph Royal Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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Terri Royal-McBride
May 17, 2020
Dear Dad,
I was sitting here thinking about you and I miss you so much. Many tears have fallen since your sunset. It's been almost 12 years since you passed but yet I still feel your presence. It's so hard to let go of someone that has been such an intricate part of who you are. I wish that you could see your grandchildren and great-grandchildren and see who I have turned out to be. I know in my heart that you would be so very proud of me. I know you are watching over me and the family. I carry on in life making sure to be a reflection of who you are and honor your name. Your grandson even changed his last name so that he could carry on your legacy. I miss you so much Dad and I just wish I could see you one more time.
R.I.P my Angel! Love Terri
November 29, 2009
Dad, it's been a complete year without you physically but I still feel your presence. I still cry and then I hear you say don't cry baby girl I'm in a better place. I always hear you when I don't know which way to turn in life's difficult situations. I know that I will see you again ONLY if I live right and obey God. Mom misses you a lot and there's never a day she doesn't mention your name or your ways. We truly miss you and we know there's only one way of seeing you again and that's to live according to the WORD of GOD. We LOVE you!!!
Your baby girl Shauntrese and
Wife Jerelene
Rickie Bolden
November 24, 2009
I still miss Pastor Royal, this has been a rough year without him, but I have not forgot what he said to me. If there is anything you need, ask God.He will provide. It is my hope that his family will continue to stay stong and know that God has him. And that we as a people must strive to see God so that we all can be together in heaven one day.
November 22, 2009
iTS ALMOST BEEN A YEAR MY BROTHER THAT YOU LEFT US BEHIND, OH I MISS YOU SO, BUT I FINALLY COME TO REALIZE WHAT YOU MEANT WHEN YOU TOLD ME THAT YOU WOULD LIVE IN ME. I SEE YOU IN THE WIND THAT BLOWS, IN THE BIRDS THAT SING, IN THE FLOWERS THAT BLOOM. YOU ARE FOREVER IN MY THOUGHTS. I LOVE YOU MY BROTHER AS MUCH AS A BROTHER AND SISTER CAN LOVE ONE ANOTHER AND I KNOW ONE DAY WE WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN, SINGING AND PREACHING GOD'S WORD TOGETHER, UNTIL THAT TIME ENJOY MOM DAD AND SISTER, ALONG WITH YOUR GREAT NEICE AND NEPHEW AND YOUR BROTHER IN LAWS. SLEEP IN PEACE MY BROTHER, TAKE YOUR REST, UNTIL THE TIME WHEN GOD CALLS THE ROLL AND WE WILL BE TOGETHER.......AGAIN.
YOUR BABY SIS, "TURTLE"
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Penny Baker
December 11, 2008
To The Royal Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss.Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. Pastor Royal will always be my spiritual father and hold a special place in my heart.
Lee Brown
December 9, 2008
To Mrs Royal and Family
You know we were at Zion Baptist every chance we got to share in the service and hear a wonderful sermon preached by Rev. Royal. We will truly miss that but God knows best.
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
From
Deacon and Deaconness Lee Brown
Edna Lee-White
December 9, 2008
To Sister Royal and Family
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. We will miss Rev Royal and his inspiring messages from God each year at our home coming services in August.
Sincerely
Deacon and Deaconness Alexander White and Family
SHARON CARTER Robinson
December 9, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Veron Harris
December 9, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Florence Sutton
December 8, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Royal.
I was surprised to here about his passing. He was one of our mail carriers when I was employed by MCV at the Sleep Disorders Center.
Before discovering Mr. Royal was a preacher, I could tell by his demeanor that he was a child of God. He would come in and talk a few minutes and be on his way.
The thing most I think we will remember about Mr. Royal is his smile.
Ministers Emma and Mary Bolden (Deacon Waverly Bolden Daughters)
December 4, 2008
My dearest loved one, here on earth,
I saw a tear fall down your face.
You didn’t see me standing there,
Nor could you feel my soft embrace.
But I was standing next to you,
I know you looked around.
You seemed to wonder what it was
You thought you heard a sound.
Yes my love, it was I,
Who came to check on you.
I saw a tear fall from your eye,
I knew you were feeling blue.
Even though you cannot see me.
Please know that I am near
I am now an angel from above
To brush away your tear.
I know each day you think of me
And many times shed a tear.
But please just close your eyes
And know that I am near.
As I have told you often,
Do not be afraid to cry.
It does relieve the pain
Knowing we had to say goodbye.
One thing is for certain,
Even though life on earth is o’er
I’m still closer to you now
Than ever I was before.
I know you still don’t understand
Why I had to leave this earth
God doesn’t have any secrets;
It’s just all planned from our birth.
Someday when you have joined me
And meet God at His Throne,
It’s then you will understand
The questions that have been unknown.
Second Liberty Baptist Church Rev. Michael Reid
December 4, 2008
Godbless your family, you have our deepest sympathany in your time of need.
Will & Barbara Stop in Food Store #90
December 4, 2008
To the Family of the late, Rev. Ralph C. Royal, We express our sincere sympathy in the loss of your loved one, and our dear friend. He will be truley missed. And our thoughts and prayers will be with you always.
Brenda Woodson
December 4, 2008
To Sis. Jerelene and Family:
Cherished memories are the gifts that help to keep us near.
To those who live within our hearts when they're no longer here.
May the caring and understanding of others bring you comfort and help you through this time of bereavement.
With sincere sympathy
Bright and Morning Star Holy Church, Elder Janene Jones, Pastor
December 4, 2008
To The Royal Family:
We were sorry to here about the passing of Reverend Ralph Royal. He touched so many people lives. Our prayers are with you all and the Zion Baptist Church Family in Dillwyn, VA.
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: II Timothy 4:6-7
Terri Royal Patterson, Delshae' Greene, & Dae'kwon
December 4, 2008
We never know the time when we have come to the end. It's the end of the road just like it was the beginning. It's just so hard to say goodbye to you. I know who you are to me and just how much you meant. I can still see that smile and the slight little squint. I love you Dad now, forever, and always you will forever be a part of me. I look in the mirror but yet I see you. You are that bright and morning star that will forever dance in my heart.
Bright and Morning Star Holy Church, Elder Janene Jones, Pastor
December 4, 2008
To:The Royal Family
We were sorry to here about the passing of Reverend Ralph Royal. He touched so many people lives. Our prayers are with you all and the Zion Baptist Church Family in Dillwyn, VA.
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: II Timothy 4:6-7
Thelma Jones & Family
December 4, 2008
To The Royal Family:
Our hearts were sadden when we heard of the passing of our pastor. We certainly will miss him. We share your sympathy.
Aaron Simpson
December 4, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mrs Royal & family, may god comfort you and keep you like only he can we love you, and will miss Rev Royal very much. The Simpson Family
Adrienne, Crystal, Keisha, Your Nephews and Neices
December 4, 2008
To our oldest sister and Aunt Terri Royal-Patteron our prayers are with you and your family we hope that you stay strong during this time of bereavement and know that Jesus loves and so does your father who is now your angel. You are in our prayers
Angie Robinson
December 4, 2008
I am so glad I had the privilege to know Uncle Bro. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength and peace during this difficult time
Charlene Gresham
December 4, 2008
We the Jackson Family send our love and heartfelt sympathy to the family in your time of loss. Our cousin knew God which allows us to know we shall all gather in heaven and praise the name of Jesus.
The children of the Honorable late Rev. Dr. Charles & Alease Jackson
The Woodson Family - Robert, James, Joe, Janice & Annie
December 4, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there are no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Diane Turnage
December 4, 2008
Mrs Royal
God has always stood by your side, and he will not leave you and your family now, Love you and your family.
Love Diane and Brandon Turnage
Deacon Waverly Bolden Children
December 3, 2008
Minister Myrtle Dobson, Sister Royal we are deeply sorry for your lost. If it gives you any comfort at all just know that to be absent from the body is to present with the lord. If we live right we will see our beloved Reverend Royal again. He will be missed very much by all who have come in contact with. If there is anything that The Bolden family can do for you all never hesitate to ask we loved Reverend Royal and took him as one of our family member, him and his lovely family. Be strong in the lord! We Love You!
Joseph & Mable Gregory
December 3, 2008
To:The Royal Family:
We sympathize with you all. Please know that in the days that lies ahead, we will continue to pray for you.
Deacon and Deaconess Waverly Bolden
December 3, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Edmonia, Dorothy, Sherman & George Carter
December 3, 2008
To: Mrs. Royal & Family
Reverend Royal was a wonderful Pastor. We will all miss him, too. His passing really left a void in our hearts. May you find comfort in knowing that he is in a better place. We will continue to remember you in our prayers.
Shauntrese Royal-Glover
December 3, 2008
Dear Father,
I was there through your trials and knew you were in pain, You ask the Lord to heal you and then he called your name.
Your baby girl,
Bernice Swann
December 3, 2008
In Our Hearts
We thought of you with love today, but that was nothing new. We thought of you yesterday, and days before that too. We think of you in silence. We often speak your name. Now, all we have is memories things will never be the same. Your memory is our keepsake, with which we'll never part. God has you in his keeping, now we have you in our hearts.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal family. May God be with you.
William,Sarah,Alexis,Kevin,Alaysha,Kaylyn, and Derrick
December 3, 2008
To Geraldine, Winnie and the childern,
May the love be with you at this time. Uncle Bro will be missed so much by everyone. We love you guys so much. Let us know if need us for anything. May GOD be with you at this time and at all times.
kim fortune
December 3, 2008
The Royal Family: My thoughts and prayers are with your wonderful family. I am so glad I got to know you as a friend. You are with God and now you no longer will have any pain.
Blessings to your family,
CHERYL BOLDEN
December 3, 2008
To the Royal Family,
My hearfelt sympathies and prayers are with you during this time. I'm praying that God will grant you strength to endure and that the comfort that only He can give will encourage you like no other.
Sis. Royal, I'm learning that grief is a process that only God can take us through one moment at a time; it is a journey where our continual hope and trust in Him will sustain us throughout the difficult days ahead.
Sis. Cheryl Bolden
Dillwyn Holy Temple Church
JEROME AND ALICE CONLEY
December 3, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Isaac Giles
December 3, 2008
First of all I would like to say to Geraldine and the children, I am so sorry about your loss. For the years I knew Ralph, he was a good man. Even though I have been out of the picture for a couple of years. You all were still in my thoughts and prayers. Just know that everything will be alright and God is watching over all of us. He would never put more on us then what we can bare. I love you all and pray you all stay strong.
Landa Jackson
December 3, 2008
To the Royal Family:
So sad to hear of the passing of your love one and want to express our sincere condolescences to the family.
We know that your hearts are sad and heavy at this time, but remember that GOD is still in charge and HE WILL take you through & give you strength. So, look up to HIM, continue to TRUST in HIM and hold on to HIS hands for HE will never leave you or forsake you.
We will keep you in our prayers. May God continue to bless and keep you in HIS care.
Love ...... Your neighbors at 6449 Holliday Road....
Bro. Theodore & Landa Jackson - Musicians
Rickie Bolden
December 3, 2008
Our prayers go out to this wonderful family who truly stood by this great man of God. He showed many of us the way to God using the Bible as a road map. He loved God and I know that God loved him so much until he called him to be by his side.
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted
Debra Beard-Crew
December 3, 2008
My pastor my heart feels so sad,because you left without a word.I was so glead that your wife let me spake to you on nov 18,that was the last time I heard your voice.sovery sorrow.love you all
Dwaine Sims
December 3, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time. One shall be comforted by the one who's teachings are hidden in thy heart.
Annie L. Mosley-Hansom
December 3, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Alberteen & Elridge Robinson
December 3, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
nancy paige
December 3, 2008
To GOD be the GLORY! HALLELUJAH! Our hearts are with you in your time of loss.God is a good GOD he saw and knew Ralph's future and he called him to his eternal healing.NO more doctor or hospitals nothing but joy! You and Winnie will always be in our prayers
Deborah Chambers
December 3, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Eddie Coley
December 3, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Myrtle Royal-Dobson
December 2, 2008
My dear Brother:
Suddenly you left me, you never said goodbye, if my love for you would have kept you, you'd still be by my side. No longer will you suffer, no longer will you cry, its just so hard to understand, only God knows why.
I am trusting in the Savior, who made us who we are, and know that when I look above, you are that shining star.
Love you much
Baby Sis, Myrtle
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