Ralph Magill, Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Lee Magill, Sr., loving husband of Betty Lawson Martin Magill, and beloved father of Ralph Lee, Jr. (Susan), Brenda Boles (Jim), Mitch, and Kareina Breazale (Brent). Ralph went home to Jesus on January 9, 2025, at Roane Medical Center in Harriman, Tennessee, surrounded by the love of Family and Friends.

Ralph was a member of North Rockwood Baptist Church and was well known for his kindness, strong work ethic, honest approach, and unwavering commitment to his family.

Ralph, who was born on November 2, 1927, in the Wheat Community of Roane County, Tennessee, had a diverse and very active life. Early in his working career, he was employed at Charles H. Bacon, Co. of Lenoir City in the capacities of Boxer, Shipper and Folding Supervisor, and later at Harriman Hosiery Mills, where he was employed as a Knitting Machine Mechanic.

On April 13, 1946, Ralph proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army and later transferred to the Air Force, where he completed his tour of duty 18 months later with an Honorable Discharge and receipt of a World War II Victory Medal. Ralph maintained a deep, lifelong pride for his country, and will be interred with full military honor. Ralph also worked in the Civic Sector as an Alderman for the City of Harriman during the 1970’s - 80’s, was employed as Deputy Sheriff for quite some time, and also was a Volunteer Fire Fighter and member of the Roane County Rescue Squad for many years.

He became an electrician early in life and formed his own business, Magill Electric, where he specialized in HVAC work, though no job was ever turned down. Ralph was the “Go To” for many homes and businesses throughout several counties, and held a reputation for his strong work ethic, and honesty. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for over 70 years. 

Ralph was preceded in death by his father, Ben H. Magill, his mother, Dora (Freels) Magill, and his first wife, Ima Pickel Magill, brother, Luther Magill, six sisters, May Littleton, Grace Robbins, Ethel Freels, Ruth Pickle, Irene Summitt, and Jane Luttrell-Gann.

Ralph is also survived by his extended family, including Jack Martin (Jill), Danny Martin (Vicki), a total of 10 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.

The family will receive friends Wednesday January 15, 2025, at North Rockwood Baptist Church in Rockwood from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Jeff Parrott officiating. Graveside services will be Thursday January 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Woodlawn Cemetery in Lenior City. 

Davis Funeral Home in Harriman is honored to serve the family of Mr. Ralph Magill Sr., during this time.