Ralph William Stahley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pastor Ralph William Stahley, beloved husband, father, grandfather (Pop Pop, Boo), great grandfather, uncle, devoted pastor, and cherished friend, who became “absent from his body, but present with the Lord” on January 4, 2025, at the age of 95. Ralph was born on June 22, 1929, to the late Ralph and Emily Stahley, in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, and made significant contributions to his community as the pastor of Trinity Bible Church, where he faithfully served for an incredible 63 years.

Ralph’s life was characterized by his unwavering faith and commitment to serving others. He touched the lives of countless individuals and families in Bristol, Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, using his platform to spread the love of Jesus, and tell them of their hope for eternal salvation through His death and resurrection. His dedication to his congregation, family, and community will forever be remembered. Mostly, he will be remembered for his humility, never wanting any glory or accolades for himself, but for it all to be given to back to glorify God.

Ralph is survived by his loving children: Wendi Rice, William Stahley (Lesley Harper), Kristen Avery (Jeff), and Kimberly Hughes (Mark), who he loved deeply, always putting their needs above his own. Also by his beloved grandchildren, William Rice, Taylor Rice, Cheyenne Stahley, Alexis Stahley, Sierra Stahley, Tyler Harper, Dylan Harper, Tyler Avery, Alyssa Avery, Allyson Avery, Mark Hughes III, Kylie Hughes, and Micah Hughes, who he always had a treat for whenever he would see them. Also survived by his sweet great-grandchildren, Samantha Rice, Sage Avery, Wyatt Avery, Georgia Oakerson, and Lainey Oakerson. Ralph was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 yrs, Jeannette (nee Gouse) in December, and his sister, Shirley Nesbitt (the late Bill). We pray that the legacy he leaves behind will continue to flourish through his family and those he inspired.

We mourn for ourselves and for the loss of his presence in our lives, but we don’t mourn for him because he is in the presence of his Savior that he loved so dearly and dedicated his life to teaching others about. If you are reading this, his greatest desire would be for you to accept Jesus as your savior and meet him in heaven one day (John 3:16).

The family will announce a memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Trinity Bible Church, 1229 Newport Road, Bristol, Pa 19007.

As we celebrate the remarkable life of Ralph William Stahley, we will carry forward his spirit of kindness, compassion, and spiritual devotion, forever grateful for the time we shared with him. II Samuel 22:31