Ralph Andrew

In Loving Memory of Ralph K. Andrew

Ralph K. Andrew of Waynesville lived a long, loud, and colorful 80 years, fueled by Diet Pepsi and righteous Indignation.

He passed away peacefully on October 14, 2023, at the age of 80, his three children, Stephanie, Seth, & Mike and his partner Lynda Self were by his side in his final days. His mark on this world will outlast him.

Ralph maneuvered the halls of government in DC, Albany, and Manhattan, working in community relations for NY area hospitals and fighting injustice at every opportunity. He worked on innumerable political and advocacy campaigns from stuffing envelopes to re-electing Congress members. Ralph built coalitions for justice impacting millions; known for rough-and-tumble politics coupled with a non-violent passion for change. 

Born in Wichita, Kansas on June 16, 1943, to Ken and Lois Andrew, two deeply committed Quakers, Ralph and his siblings, Dale and Nancy, were encouraged to pursue lives of peaceful activism.  

Ralph graduated from the Scattergood Friends School, Earlham College, and Syracuse University, funding some of his education playing competitive bridge; a passion to which he returned during retirement in Florida and North Carolina. 

A larger-than-life character, Ralph is remembered lovingly by his family, friends, and five grandchildren. He stood out in a crowd with a sartorial splendor including rainbow suspenders and bright pastels accented with political lapel pins. Ralph was a global traveler with a deep passion for Yankees baseball and charities including service to Pathways Ministry and Habitat for Humanity.

Ralph’s family is grateful for the unwavering care and love they have received, particularly from Grace Church in the Mountains.

A service will be held at 6:00 p.m on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Grace Church of the Mountains.  Another service will be held at a later date in New York. Ralph’s family would appreciate seeing photos, quotes, funny vignettes, and happy remembrances posted on www.RalphAndrew.Life

In lieu of flowers, memorials made be made to www.HaywoodHabitat.org