Ralph Hensley

Ralph Hensley, 83, was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior on February 18, 2026.

He was born on January 17, 1943, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to Ralph and Winona

Hensley.

After graduating from Altus High School, Ralph attended Southwestern State College in

Weatherford, Oklahoma, where he met the love of his life, Markeeta. They were blessed

with 60 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and

unwavering devotion to one another.

Ralph worked hard throughout his life. He began his career in construction, later worked

as a painter, and eventually retired as a car salesman. No matter the role, he

approached it with dedication - and his trademark humor. He often joked, "I'm not

afraid of hard work. I can lie down right next to it and fall fast asleep." Those who knew

him understood that behind the humor was a man who provided faithfully and worked

tirelessly for his family.

When he wasn't working, Ralph found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved fishing for

bass, catfish, and crappie; coaching and cheering on his favorite teams; and spending

time with his grandchildren. He was also known for his generous "donations to the tribe"

during his visits to the local casinos - a phrase that always brought a smile to those

who knew him best.

Above all else, Ralph's greatest joy was his family. Being a husband, dad, and Papa

wasn't just something he did - it was who he was. His family is his greatest legacy.

They will honor him by telling his stories, sharing his jokes, and loving one another the

way he loved them - fully and without hesitation.

Ralph is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Markeeta - together again for

eternity. He will be deeply missed by his children, Denise Lay, Clarice Landers, and Dan

Hensley; his grandchildren, Aleesha Miller, Jody Lay, Clayton Lay, Preston Lay, Caden

Landers, Bryson Landers, Carson Hensley, and Trevor Hensley; his four great-

grandchildren; and the many friends and loved ones who are still quoting his jokes.