James Gordon Ralston

James Gordon Ralston, of Williamstown, Kentucky, passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, December 17th, 2023; he was 67 years old. Jim was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, July 4th, 1956 to the late James and Kay Ralston. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Carol Case, as well as his beloved wife, Linda Ruth Ralston.

Jim, the oldest of four children, began his life in Pennsylvania until his family made the transfer to Texas. By the mid 80s, he would make a transfer of his own to Pompano Beach, Florida, where he would meet the love of his life, Linda. On Saturday, May 31st, 1986, Jim and Linda were united in marriage and would spend the next 34 years with one another until Linda’s passing in June of 2020. The two would eventually move to Kentucky in the late 90s to live closer to family, but neither of them ever lost their love of Florida and its beaches. As animal lovers, the couple would feed and keep the strays of their neighborhood here in Kentucky from going hungry.

Jim began in construction where he discovered his craftiness and knack for working with his hands. Once coming to Kentucky, he worked as a truck driver contracted to haul mail to various airports across the state. Jim later began work at Dana Incorporated located here in Dry Ridge, KY. There he worked for over 10 years, holding various positions within the company including welder, until his retirement from Dana in January of 2023. Following retirement, Jim rekindled old hobbies like his leather work, crafting purses and belts; while adopting new, self-taught hobbies like woodworking, building cabinets and lathe bowls.

Jim is survived by two of his siblings: Melanie (Reed) Gillespie of Telford, PA, and Gregory Ralston of Pensacola, FL.; as well as his two step-children: April (Michael) Garcia of Texas, and Robert (Kelli) Bodey of Ohio. In addition, Jim is also survived by his nephews: Reed and Eric Gillespie of Telford, PA, T.J. Wood of Colorado, and Chris Cox of Texas; as well as his niece, Ashlee Edwards of Texas.

A service to honor Jim’s life will be planned for a later date at the family’s convenience. For those wishing to honor his memory, memorial donations are directed towards the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Grant County Animal Shelter In Jim’s name.