Ralph Pratt

The Honorable Ralph D. Pratt of New Castle, PA, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on August 18, 2025. Born July 7, 1940 to Paul and Ann (Morella) Pratt. Ralph was a devoted husband, who shared 52 wonderful years of marriage with his loving wife, Susan.

Ralph was a graduate of the Lincoln High School in the class of 1959 where he discovered his love for football, playing for the fighting Wolverines (#34). A lifelong learner with a deep love of knowledge, he pursued education with passion and purpose. He earned his Chemistry Degree at Baldwin-Wallace College, Masters Degree in Health Law and a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Following his time at PITT, he became a published author in the Physician's Association April 1972 Vol. II "Determining Legal Sanction for the Physician's Assistant". He later received a Master of Judicial Studies at the University of Nevada in 1993.

Ralph was a man of many talents and achievements, whose career reflected both remarkable versatility and an unwavering commitment to service. From his early work as a chemical engineer contributing to projects connected with the Gemini space program, to his decades of public service in law and government, Ralph's life was defined by accomplishment and dedication. He was admitted to the Pennsylvania, Ohio and California State federal bars where he started practicing law in 1971. He was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1974 where he proudly served six consecutive terms. In 1986, Ralph was elected to serve as a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Lawrence County and later became President Judge in 2000. He retired in 2004. From working in laboratories and legislative chambers to holding the gavel on the bench, Ralph built a career as wide-ranging as it was impactful.

Though his professional achievements were many, Ralph will be remembered most for his devotion to his family. To him, they were the most important people in his life and the source of greatest pride and happiness. He was a man of deep integrity, with a warm sense of humor that could light up a room. His quick wit, laughter and kindness touched everyone he met, leaving behind memories filled with both wisdom and joy. In his spare time, he loved to play golf with his family and follow his love for sports cheering on the Steelers, Pirates, the Pitt Panthers and watching IndyCar.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, and his two kitties that he loved and adored, Lucee and Rosie. Survivors include his brothers and sisters, Pollyann (Joseph) Frank of New Castle, Pennsylvania, Richard (Elaine) Pratt of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, Paul (Rali) Pratt of Santa Barbara, California, Ollie Pratt of New Castle, Pennsylvania, Pamela Pratt of Santa Barbara, California; Nieces and Nephews, Jodi Frank, Richard (Christie) Pratt, Anthony Buzzelli Jr., Michael (Julie) Pratt, Elizabeth (Jeff) Tonarelli, Erin (Bert) Miles, Jeffrey (Adrienne) Pratt, Paul Y. Pratt and many great nieces and nephews.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Paul and Ann Pratt; nephew Stephen P. Pratt and many fur-babies.

At Ralph's request, a private viewing and Blessing Service will be held with immediate and extended family members at the Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home & Crematory, 3000 Wilmington Road. Father Benjamin Barr, Pastor of Holy Spirit Parish will officiate. Burial will be in Parkside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Ralph's lifelong love for animals, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to the Lawrence County Humane Society in New Castle, PA. www.lawrencecountyhumane.com or Promises for Pets located at 439 Court St. New Castle, PA 16101.