Ralph Watson McClure

Ralph Watson McClure, age 89, of Columbus, OH, passed away suddenly, May 1, 2013, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. Ralph, who now walks with his Lord and Savior, was born in Reynoldsburg, son of Minerva and Ralph E. McClure who preceeded him in death. He has rejoined the love of his life, Anne, his beautiful wife of 58 years. Second only to his love for Jesus Christ, was his love and dedication to his family and dear friends. A proud U.S. Army Veteran of WWII, he served in the Asian-Pacific Rim in the headquarters of General MacArthur. Ralph devoted many years of voluntary service to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Capital City Chapter 3, serving as Treasurer and Delegate for numerous DAV National and State Conventions. He was a long-term volunteer at the Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center. Ralph retired from the Equitable Life Insurance Company in 1985. Prior to his career in insurance sales, he worked for the U.S. Postal Service. Ralph and Anne were best known around Columbus for their singing and acting talents. As a duo, they brightened the day for hundreds of nursing home residents by performing their song and dance routines. As an actor, he had a number of appearances on local TV shows in the 60's, including The Judge and Traffic Court. A member of Village Little Theater, he was cast in leading roles, performing in many plays and musical productions. Ralph was an honorary lifetime member of the Saturday Music Club for his support in the production of opera vignettes - everything from building sets, making costumes and on-stage performances. Until recently, he was active at the Gillie Senior Center - Gillie Players (drama group) and Senior Chorus. As a member of the Martin Janis Senior Center, he became a skilled and award winning craftsman in the art of stained glass. A devout Christian, Ralph has been a member of Concord Liberty Baptist Church in Johnstown, The Light of the Living Christ Church in Gahanna and Oakland Park United Methodist Church in Columbus. He was a proud graduate of Reynoldsburg High School and attended The Ohio State University. Ralph is survived by his son, Franklyn R. McClure (and daughter-in-law, Rita); daughter, Anne Elaine (and partner Nancy Clifford); daughter, Annette McClure (and partner Pam Ellis); granddaughter, Jamie (McClure) Crossman; grandson, Michael LaValle, and numerous cousins. Funeral Service 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at RUTHERFORD FUNERAL HOME, 2383 North High Street, Columbus, with Rev. David Sedziol, officiating. Family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 13, and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial to follow service at Union Cemetery.