Ralph W. Ashton, Jr.

Ralph W. Ashton, Jr., 93, of York, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at his daughter's residence. He was reunited with his beloved wife of 69 years, Jean L. (Rinehart) Ashton, who preceded him in death on January 9, 2022.

Born on October 1, 1931, in York, Ralph was the son of the late Ralph W. Sr. and Mary Frances (Oaks) Ashton. A 1949 graduate of West York High School, he went on to serve our country with distinction in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

Ralph dedicated his professional life to working as a maintenance supervisor at Medusa Cement and York Stone & Supply until his retirement. His strong work ethic and attention to detail were hallmarks of his career.

A man of faith, Ralph was a devoted member of St. James Lutheran Church for 72 years. 

In his leisure time, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and golf, pursuits that allowed him to appreciate the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of friends and family. 

Ralph's legacy lives on through his loving family: son Rickey R. Ashton and wife Anita of Spring Grove; daughter Deborah J. Ashton of York; three grandchildren, Jean Marie Wanamaker, Rebecca Ashton Parsons, and Wesley Charles Ashton; and four great-grandchildren, Samuel David Wanamaker, Louisa Marie Ashton, Ellie Marie Wanamaker, and Henry Charles Ashton. 

Ralph lived a life of service, fellowship, and fraternal values. He achieved the prestigious title of 32nd Degree Mason. Additionally, he was a Shriner for over 50 years in Zembo Shrine, and was recognized through his 60-year pin from The Zeredatha-White Rose Lodge No. 451, a testament to his enduring commitment to the fraternal organization and its principles of brotherhood, charity, and personal growth. His commitment to service was further demonstrated by his membership in the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

Ralph will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his service to his country, and his quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of love, honor, and respect that will continue to inspire all who knew him. A Celebration of Life Tribute service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at St. James Lutheran Church, 25 N. Adams St., West York, with Pastor Scott A. Sager officiating. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a viewing from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service. The Zeredatha-White Rose Lodge No. 451 will conduct Masonic Rites at 10:45 a.m.

Following the church service, lunch will be served. The graveside ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m. in Mt. Rose Cemetery, where Ralph will be honored with full military rites provided by the York County Veterans Honor Guard. Those wishing to join the funeral cortege are asked to meet at the cemetery entrance at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. James Lutheran Church, 25 N. Adams St., York, PA 17404 or York County Shrine Club to benefit Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, PO Box 441 Emigsville, PA 17318.

Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd., York, is entrusted with the arrangements.