Edwin Ralph Lantz Sr.

Edwin "Ralph" Lantz, Sr., 76, of Grottoes, Virginia passed away at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Ralph was born February 7, 1950 in Smith Creek Franklin, West Virginia, and was the son of the late Dolan and Dorothy Lantz.

In addition to his parents, Ralph is preceded in death by his grandparents, Herman Hartman and Virgie Bennett, Victor and Ella Lantz; son, Eddie R. Lantz, Jr.; great-grandchild, Everleigh Jo Viands; mother and father-in-law, Charles and Elnora "Sites" Ludholtz.

Ralph was a jack of all trades, and worked as a welder for 31 years at Dunham-Bush until he retired. Ralph loved hunting, fishing, and was also very handy. He also enjoyed working on classic cars. Family was the most important thing to Ralph, especially his children. Ralph was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather that will be missed by all those who loved him.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruth "Ludholtz" Lantz; daughters, Melody Hammer and husband, Greg, Kelli Brown and husband, Chris; brother, Delbert Lantz and wife, Vivian; grandchildren, Vanessa Wyant (Kevin), Nathan Mitchell (Kayla), Katelynn Viands (Jarred), Tyler Hammer, Makenzie Kee (Anthony), Jadynn Brown (Devin), Trenton Brown, Hunter Hammer; great-grandchildren, Riley, Aiden, Aleeha, Georgia, Oaklynn, Ellianna, Waylon, Amanda, Hazleigh, Mason, Nelson, Winsley, Daxton, Remington, and one on the way; special nephews, Leon Lantz, Jeff Lantz; and special fur baby, Charmin.

The family will receive friends prior to service from 2-3 p.m., Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the Shenandoah Assembly of God.

A memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 15, 2026 at the Shenandoah Assembly of God with Pastor Carter Dean, Pastor Jim Rogers, Pastor Jimmy Kite, and Pastor Josh Shifflett officiating.