Ralph Dean Gayler, the son of Thomas and Bessie (Seabourn) Gayler, was born October 16, 1921 in Winslow, Arkansas. He grew up on a farm east of Rock Port, Missouri and attended a rural area school. On July 15, 1942, Ralph entered the United States Army, where he served his country during World War II. He received his honorable discharge on December 15, 1945.

On May 15, 1943, Ralph was united in marriage to Eva Millsap in Tarkio, Missouri while he was in Army training for World War II. They became the parents of two children, Ron and Larry and made their home in Rock Port after being discharged in 1945. Eva passed away in 1996.

Ralph was employed by Atchison Holt Electric and was an original lineman working to become a manager of Cooperative, retiring in 1986.

Ralph was a member of First Lutheran Church and Ralph Greer American Legion Post #49, Rock Port, earning his 75th year membership. He enjoyed woodworking and traveling to Ron’s to spend time with grandchildren. Ralph passed away, Tuesday, August 3, 2021, Pleasant View Nursing Home, Rock Port, at the age of 99.

Besides his parents and wife, Eva Gayler, Ralph was preceded in death by son, Larry “Cotton” Gayler; two sisters and two brothers. Survivors include son, Ron (Barbara) Gayler, Youngsville, Louisiana; grandchildren, Randy Gayler, Joplin, Missouri, Erin (Jason) Jones, Austin, Texas, and Jessica (Corey) Morgan, Youngsville; great grandchildren, Jack, Hank, and Kate Morgan, Youngsville; numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside Service and Inurnment: 1:00 P.M., Saturday, August 21, 2021, Hunter Cemetery, Rock Port.

There is no visitation.

Memorials: Rock Port Senior Center.

Arrangements: Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port.

www.minterfuneralchapels.com