Dr. Ralph H. Walker

1930 - 2024

Long time Augusta University Professor, Dr. Ralph H. Walker, 94, loving husband of Monica Vasters Walker, peacefully entered into eternal rest on August 15,2024 at Brandon Wilde Pavilion, Evans, GA.

Ralph was born in Slippery Rock, PA to Grace nee Humphrey and Ralph E. Walker. Ralph served in the USAF during the Korean Conflict. He received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Kent State University, Kent, OH.

After working at the Aerospace Industry at Cape Canaveral and Huntsville, AL for several years Ralph went back to school at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA to obtain his PhD in Political Science and Public Administration. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Ralph moved to Augusta, GA in 1969 to accept a teaching position at Augusta College where he taught for 42 years and was the first Chairman of the Political Science Department. He established The Augusta College Research Center and implemented the Master of Public Administration degree. Ralph was presented with the Richard S. Wallace Distinguished Service Award for his service. He was also awarded the Town and Gown Award. Ralph was actively involved in the local political scene having had two Mayors, Charles DeVaney and Deke Copenhaver, that were his students, and relied heavily on his expertise. He was also a valued consultant to other Mayors. Ralph was considered an icon in local politics. He participated on TV shows with nationally acclaimed speakers and moderators. He was a recipient of the "Gabby" award. Ralph was proclaimed the "Political Guru" by the media. He also served as a member of the Richmond County School board and Good Government Organization.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and brother William Walker. He is survived by his wife of 32 years: Monica Vasters Walker and his daughters: Terri Degenhardt (Walter), Robin Walker as well as stepsons: Brian Carlisle (Suzette) and Chris Carlisle (Linda); grandchildren: Kelli Riddle, Brooke Maner (Matt), Cayley Allen (Michael) and Walker Watson; great grandchildren: Haley Jane and Carter Richards, Aubrie, Brooklyn and Weston Allen, Harper Lovett and Laila Maner; brothers-in-law: Dipl. Ing. Gerhard Vasters and Dr. Thomas Vasters (Dr. Claudia) of Fulda, Germany.

A special thanks to the CNA caregivers, Carla and Ashley and Hospice at Brandon Wilde Pavilion.

Ralph will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched, his many students and especially by his great grands his "Supergirls" Aubrie and Brooklyn and his "Buddy" Weston Allen.

Services will be private.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.