Ralph Ray McCumber Jr.

CDR Ralph Ray McCumber, Jr., USN, Retired, 79, of Decatur, passed peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, April 18, 2024, following a long illness.
Affectionately known as Mac or Scrag by many loved ones, Ralph was born in Portsmouth, Virginia, on August 24, 1944, to the late Mr. Ralph Ray McCumber, Sr., and Mrs. Lucile Bennett McCumber. His brother, Alan McCumber, preceded him in death earlier this year.
Ralph graduated from Druid Hills High School in 1962. He served as class president, yearbook editor, and member of the National Honor Society and National Beta Club. A talented athlete, Ralph divided his time between gymnastics, track and field, and football. At one time, he was captain of the football team and held the state record for javelin throw. He often spoke fondly of his classmates and time spent "goofing around" during those formative years.
Following graduation from high school, Ralph began a proud and distinguished journey with the United States Navy. His naval career started at the United States Naval Academy, from which he graduated in 1966. Shortly after graduating, Ralph served his country for multiple tours of duty, commanding a Patrol Boat, River (PBR) squadron in the Vietnam War, where Ralph was awarded a Bronze Star with Combat Device. Ralph remained in the US Navy until 1986, serving his country at sea, in the United States Pentagon, and the Naval Recruit Training Command. During his service to his country, Ralph was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal with Star and Navy Commendation Medal with Star.
After Ralph served in the United States Navy, MCI hired him as Vice President of International Billing. He retired from the private sector in 1999.
Ralph was a lifelong Boy Scout, obtaining the rank of Eagle as a teen. He was a camp counselor and recipient of the God and Country Medal. He remained active in scouting in his adult life as well. Ralph was a Scout leader for Troop 6 from 1987-2010, serving as Scoutmaster from 1997-2010. Under his leadership as Scoutmaster, 24 scouts earned the rank of Eagle.
Ever a servant and friend to all in need, Ralph also spent many active years volunteering for the Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry (DEAM). He was the Pantry Stock Manager and Chairman of the DEAM council. Those serving with him dubbed him as DEAM's very own combination of Albert Einstein and MacGyver.
Ralph was a leader, a friend to all, a hero for his country, a sage, a scholar, a photographer, an adventurer, a collector, an artist, a storyteller, an environmentalist, and an outdoorsman. He was the "fun" uncle, the protective big brother, the dutiful son, and a man who was never afraid to tell others he cherished them. Ralph's legacy is one of love and a purpose-filled life. He reminded us to make every moment on this earth count, that every breath is precious, and to be an extension of Christ.
Ralph is survived by his brother, Jerry D. McCumber (Cathy); nephews, Eric Jensen (TJ), Bennett McCumber (Allison); and nieces, Stephanie Clark (Matt), Allison Stapleton (Scott), and Mary Melson (Hunter); six grandnieces; seven grandnephews; a number of cousins, caregiver and chosen family, Mike Dwyer; and associate, Fluffy.
Funeral arrangements are by A.S. Turner and Sons in Decatur. Services for Ralph will be held at Gospel Hope Church (47 Covington Hwy, Avondale Estates, GA, 30002) on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The family will receive visitors from 1:00 pm-2:00 pm, with the funeral service following at 2:00 pm. A graveside service will immediately follow at Melwood Cemetery (5170 East Ponce de Leon Ave, Stone Mountain, GA 30083).
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes and appreciates memorial contributions to a favorite non-profit in honor of Ralph Ray McCumber, Jr.