Ralph Nolon Royston

Ralph Nolon Royston, age 80, passed away on May 6, 2026. Born on March 12, 1946, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Ralph lived a life full of stories, laughter, friendship, and deep pride for the people he loved most.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Terri Rae Royston, and his parents, Clarence Hugh Royston and Wilma Jane Royston.

Ralph is survived by his children James, John, and Jesse, as well as Jason and Jami, whom he loved as his own. He is also survived by his grandchildren Melissa, Justin, Ruby, Lois, and Clementine; his great-grandchildren Xander and Xaiden; and the mother of his children, Linda Royston.

Ralph proudly served in the United States Coast Guard before working as a machinist at Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula for 31 years. After retirement, he made his home in Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico.

He never met a stranger and cherished the close friendships he built throughout his life. Ralph was an avid collector of guns and puns, a master storyteller, and someone who could turn even an ordinary moment into a memorable tale. If you asked a simple question, there was a good chance you were about to hear a story worth sitting down for.

More than anything, Ralph loved his family and was quick to tell anyone nearby just how proud he was of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Although he will be terribly missed, he leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, friendship, and memories that will continue to be shared around dinner tables, front porches, and wherever people gather to tell a good tale

Graveside services will be held at 1:30 PM on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Fort Stanton State Veterans Cemetery. 

A Memorial Gathering will be held from 2:00 Pm to 9:00 PM on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 268 Eagle Creek Canyon Road in Ruidoso. Go past Shangrila Drive and look to the left across from the National Park entrance. Family and friends are welcome to join us for food, refreshments, and conversation as we share memories of Ralph.