Thomas Howard Ralston, 77, of Eatonton, went to be with his Lord on May 23, 2025.
In the last few years, Thomas suffered from Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s dementia.
Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church, Eatonton Sanctuary, on Saturday, May 31, at 10:00 AM, with a Celebration of Life service following at 11:00 AM.
There will be no graveside service.
Thomas was born to the late William Clate (W.C.) Ralston, Sr. and Wilmouth Estelle Howard Ralston on May 31, 1947, in Milledgeville, Georgia. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Dana Scherie Ralston Meeks.
Survivors include his wife of almost 50 years (anniversary is December 14), Gwendolyn (Gwen) Cox Ralston. His sons, David Troy (Tonya) Ralston and Kyle Thomas Ralston (Kristie Hardie). Grandchildren: Jacob Tyler Ralston, Andrew Thomas Meeks, and Autumn Estelle Ralston. His brothers, William (Clate) Ralston, Jr. (Belle) of Savannah, and Walker David Ralston (Linda) of Eatonton. And numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Thomas graduated from Putnam County High School, class of 1965, where he was class treasurer and played football. He attended North Georgia College, then transferred to West Georgia College.
Georgia Power Company employed him for 42 years, mainly at the Plant Branch in Eatonton. He has held many positions as he progressed in his career, among them: working in the lab, power generation, and instructor.
During this time, he was an active member of the Georgia National Guard, serving as a heavy equipment operator.
He was a devoted deacon and member of First Baptist Church in Eatonton, where he served on numerous committees, including: Property Committee, Sunday School Superintendent, and teacher of the ABC Sunday School Class.
Thomas was a member of Rising Star #4, Free & Accepted Masons, Eatonton, and was an Al Sihah Shriner, Macon.
Since his retirement, he has been an active member of the Georgia Power Ambassadors retirement group. He served in numerous local and state positions.
He was an avid fan of the University of Georgia football team. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, shooting sporting clays, and trap shooting.
Honorary guests will be the ABC Sunday School class and members of Rising Star #4.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church, P.O. 3400, Eatonton, GA. 31024, or to the Masonic Children’s Home, Macon, GA.
Vining Ivy Hill Chapel is responsible for the arrangements.