Ralph Aaron Strong

Ralph Aaron Strong, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, left this world peacefully on November 9, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on December 23, 1928, Ralph was a proud Southern man, raised alongside the Tombigbee Waterway at Old Lock 1, where his father served as the Lockmaster, instilling in him a love for the outdoors that lasted a lifetime.

Ralph's journey began with a High School Diploma, but his ambitions led him to serve proudly in the United States Army, where he demonstrated dedication and resilience. After his service, he made his mark as an engineer in the dredge boat industry, spending much of his career with Warrior & Gulf and the Corps of Engineers. He followed in his father's footsteps and became Lockmaster at the Columbus Lock in Columbus, MS, where he was known for his steadfastness and expertise.

Ralph was a member of the Forest Avenue Baptist Church, where he found community and support. He cherished his downtime, often spent hunting, fishing, and woodworking. Perhaps most notably, he found joy in building boats, a skill that blended his passion for the water with his craftsmanship. But above all, Ralph was devoted to his family. He created a lifetime of memories, with laughter and love shared during family gatherings.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, Sebra Lemuel & Annie Mae Strong; siblings, S.L. Strong, Winston Strong, Jeanette Moore, Agnes Hammond, and Lane Strong; and grandson, Jared Strong.

He is survived by his children, Lemuel (Mary Nell) Strong, Earl (Mary) Strong, and Nick Strong; sister, Ann Waddleigh; grandchildren, Dr. Ashley (Elon) Koski, Justin Strong, Whitney (Patrick) Wallace, Wesley (Victoria) Strong, and Hayley (Taylor) Lamberth; step-grandson, Caleb Toshcoff; former wife, Nell Granade Strong; as well as numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

A graveside service will be held on November 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Pinecrest Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Ralph's remarkable life. His spirit will live on in the stories shared and the love that will resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

In Ralph's memory, let us honor the simple joys he held dear: the beauty of nature, the thrill of a fishing line cast into a glistening river, and the warmth of family ties. May he rest in peace, knowing he was loved, respected, and will be missed by many.