1962-2024

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ralph Lawrence Savage, Jr., a dearly beloved husband, son, father, grandfather “Rafa,” uncle, and cherished member of the community. Born on March 13, 1962, in Spring Branch, Texas, to Ralph Savage, Sr. and Ramona Savage-Turner, Ralph spent his early years in Madison County, dutifully assisting his family on their farm and falling in love with the agriculture sector.

A graduate of Madisonville High School, Ralph’s professional journey culminated in a successful career as a corporate salesman for KD Timmons, later CR Texas, LLC, spanning an impressive thirty-three years. In addition to his corporate endeavors, Ralph pursued his passion for good food and the service of others by establishing his own catering business, King Ralph Catering, in 1992.

His culinary expertise was recognized statewide and especially known by all that loved him. Ralph also enjoyed spending time at the deer lease in Sabinal. Most nights there you could find him sitting around the campfire sharing stories or riding around the ranch taking in the wildlife and beautiful scenery.

Called by his unwavering heart for service, Ralph’s contributions to various charities were extensive. He served as a co-chairman for the Area Go Texan Organization of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo from 2011 to 2013. In 2014 Ralph began serving as Director of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and presided as the president of the Emergency Services District in Leon County. His dedication to these roles left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he served. A member of the Cowboy Church of Leon County in Centerville, Texas, it is there that Ralph found faith and fellowship. His presence and contributions enriched the spiritual tapestry of the congregation.

Of all of Ralph’s passions, his friends and family were always at the forefront and he never missed an opportunity to celebrate all of the good that life brought him. It is this infectious fervor that will undoubtedly be carried by all that had the pleasure of knowing him - a legacy that he would be so proud of.

Ralph was preceded in death by father, Ralph Savage, Sr.; wife, Lori (Oden) Savage and brother- in-law, Brian Stafford.

Ralph’s memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife, Karen (Stafford) Savage of Centerville; children, Jeremy Savage & wife, Trudie, of Mill Creek, OK, Matt Johnson & wife, Vanessa of College Station; Mistin Meyer & husband, Blake of Bryan; Tyler Parks & wife, Emily, of New Braunfels and Tanner Parks of Boise, ID; grandchildren, Jasmine, Jerricka, Alethia, Archer, Reid and Olivia; brother & sisters-in-law, Bubba & Lenora Oden and Diane (Oden) Davis; nieces & nephew, Vic Stafford, Leslee Oden, Amy (Oden) Adams & husband, Glenn, and Cody Oden; great nieces, Kimber, Kallee and Katie; and great nephews, Ryder and Roan; as well as by a multitude of friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives he touched in meaningful ways.

In honoring Ralph’s legacy, a funeral service and commemoration of Ralph’s remarkable life, were held at the Cowboy Church of Leon County on April 17, 2024, at 1 p.m. Following the service, Ralph was laid to rest in Leona Cemetery, Leona, Texas.

Ralph Lawrence Savage’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have known him. May his soul find eternal peace and may his legacy endure through the lives he touched.

Pallbearers were Kenny Porterfield, Randy Porterfield, George Holleman, David Koonce, Jim Huggins, Bubba Oden.

Honorary Pallbearers were Jeremy Savage, Matt Johnson, Tyler Parks, Tanner Parks, Blake Meyer, John Hardy, Russell Raia, Curtis Brenner.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Leona Volunteer Fire Department at P.O. Box 4, Leona, TX 75850 Final arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas.