Ralph W. Palma, Jr

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph W. Palma, Jr., a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. Ralph passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 86. He loved his family, Bristol, Italian food, ice cream (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry - in that order), classic cars, 50s music, games of chance, and of course - the Yankees!

Ralph was born on November 10, 1938, at Saint Mary's Hospital in Waterbury, Connecticut to Ralph Palma Sr. and Mary Corieia. Shortly after, the family moved from Naugatuck, Connecticut to Bristol, Rhode Island, where he grew up with a multi-generational family on Bradford Street in the heart of downtown Bristol. Ralph graduated from Colt High School in 1957, where he was a proud member of the Italian club and could be found spending time with classmates and playing baseball. After high school, he served in the Army Reserves before building a forty-year career in the lumber industry. Ralph worked in sales, leaving an indelible mark on his colleagues at Wardwell Lumber and PD Humphreys.

Ralph married Ann Marie Tavares of Portsmouth, Rhode Island on June 12, 1971. From that point on, he dedicated his entire life to his family and particularly the success of his sons, Matt and John. He instilled in them a passion for competition through sports, but more importantly he impressed upon them the value of hard work, a college education, and accomplishing what you set out to do. Ralph and his wife proudly attended every one of their son's games from T-ball to college baseball. They also worked tirelessly as a couple to send Matt and John to private high school and college. In 1996, Ralph graduated to the status of "Papa" and cherished every moment spent with his five grandsons.

When he was not working, Ralph enjoyed family vacations to New Hampshire and Maine, tending to his yard, watching baseball, or enjoying an afternoon at the casino. He was a master at causing laughs, which endeared him to family and friends. He also had an insatiable sweet tooth and an uncanny ability to find treats in difficult hiding places.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Ann Palma; his two sons, Colonel Matt Palma, USMC (Retired), and John N. Palma; his sisters, Geraldine Sloat and Joanne Labao; and his grandchildren, Justin M. Palma, Kyle A. Palma, Jacob T. Palma, LCpL Brendan M. Palma, USMC, and John N. Palma, Jr. who will forever remember him with love and respect. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Palma; and his siblings, Joseph Palma, and Shirley Vadnais.

Let us remember Ralph with laughter and love, just as he would have wanted. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his grandsons and those fortunate enough to have known him.