Ronald William Ralph

Texas Archeologist, Ronald W. "Ron" Ralph, passed away in a local hospital on April, 16, 2025.  He was 82 years old.

Ron was born in Santa Barbara, California, but moved to Texas in 1965, where he graduated from the University of Texas and made a career in archeology for the next 60 years.  he is survived by his wife, three children, three step-children, twelve grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and his sister in California. 

Ron worked for over 20 years at Texas Park & Wildlife, retiring in 1997, to become a private consultant in Cultural Resource Management.  He also began caving early on which became a lifelong passion.  He served as president of the Texas Archeological Society, president of the Texas Speleological Survey, was on the board of directors of Texas Cave Management Association, and was a fellow of the National Speleological Society.  Ron is due to receive from the Texas Historical Commission on April 24, the Curtis D. Tunnell Lifetime Achievement Award in Archeology. 

In addition, Ron performed countless hours of volunteer work over the years in both fields. 

A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.