Ralph Bonner, 87, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in North Carolina. Born in Rainelle, WV, Ralph spent the majority of his life in Ronceverte, a community he loved deeply and served with unwavering devotion. Due to medical circumstances, he spent his final few years in North Carolina to be near his family, who cherished the extra time they were able to spend with him.
Service to others was the cornerstone of Ralph’s life. At the young age of 17, he joined the Ronceverte Volunteer Fire Department, beginning a lifetime of dedication as an active, deeply committed member well into his retirement years. He was also immensely proud of his service in the West Virginia Army National Guard, protecting both his state and country. A man of deep faith, Ralph was a devout member of the Ronceverte Baptist Church and was equally dedicated in his professional life, retiring after a long, successful career with B.F. Goodrich.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Jason and Mary Bonner; his brothers, Forrest and Gene; his sister, Gilda; and his beloved daughter, Vicky.
He is survived by his brother, James; his grandchildren, Brittany Bonner, G. W. Wagner, Michelle Skaggs, and Isadora Wagner; and his great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ralph also leaves behind innumerable friends, neighbors, and acquaintances made throughout a long, deeply meaningful life. He never met a stranger, and his impact on the Ronceverte community will not be forgotten.
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Ralph’s life and legacy on Tuesday, June 2, from 11 AM to 12:30 PM, at Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home, 212 Monroe Avenue, Ronceverte, WV.
A prayer service at 12:30 PM with Pastor Andy Howdock officiating. Burial will follow in Greenbrier Memorial Gardens.
Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com
