Ralph was born in LaFayette, Alabama April 13, 1951 to the late Homer Preston and the late Mary Hinkle Preston, he was a member of the First Methodist Church in LaFayette, and was retired form the Opelika Fire Department.

 He is survived by his 2 children-Jayne (Dennis) Gardner of Auburn, Al., Ben (Laura) Preston of Birmingham,Al., and 4 grandchildren-Preston Gardner, Carter Gardner, Claire Preston & Mary Preston.