Obituary

Ralph Elbert Lunsford, 88, of Mesa, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 27, 1936, in Knoxville, Tennessee, he is survived by his wife, Bonnie Ruth Lunsford and daughter Pamela Lynn Lunsford. He was the beloved son of the late Mary Elizabeth George Lunsford and Okla Jerome Lunsford.

Ralph married the love of his life, Bonnie, on July 8, 1957, and they enjoyed nearly 67 years together. He was predeceased by his son, Matthew Eugene Lunsford. Ralph was a proud grandfather to Tierra, Chezz, Karisha, and James Saenz, and a proud great-grandfather. He also leaves behind many other loved ones, including Keith, James Benny, Katrina, and Lawik.

Ralph served in the U.S. Army for three years and then worked overseas as a heavy equipment operator for many years. He was also a skilled author who wrote about those experiences. 

He will be remembered for his unconditional love, kindness, witty sense of humor, and unforgettable stories. Ralph was a devote Christian man who was kind to anyone he crossed paths with and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Now that Ralph has passed into the arms of our Lord, we should remind ourselves that while this is the end of Ralph’s physical life on Earth, it’s the beginning of an eternal and beautiful journey for him. Ralph joins his son Matthew in heaven. 

Romans 5:1

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.