Obituary of Lucille P. Ralph

Lucille P. Ralph

March 17, 1939 – March 28, 2026

Lucille P. Ralph, 87, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, at the LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Erie, PA. She was born on March 17, 1939, in Buffalo, NY, the daughter of the late Joseph and Phyllis DeAngelo.

While born in Buffalo, Lucille spent her early life in Silver Creek before moving to Dunkirk, NY, where she remained a lifelong resident. Known affectionately throughout the community as "Big Lou"—a name that celebrated her small stature and wonderfully big personality—she was a beloved figure to all who knew her. For many years, she was a familiar and spirited face at Mary’s Deli in Dunkirk, where her hard work and vibrant nature made her a local fixture.

Lucille found her greatest joy in the simple, meaningful things: the challenge of a crossword puzzle, the pride of a home-cooked meal, and the steady presence of her family. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she leaves behind a sprawling legacy of love and devotion.

She is survived by her six children: Ronald (Sheila) Ralph of Pensacola, FL; Marybeth Rivera of Dunkirk, NY; Nicholas Ralph of Amherst, NY; Julie Ruiz of FL; Carmen (Miguel) Piazza of Miami, FL; and Felicia (Wilberto) Rodriguez of Erie, PA.

Lucille’s heart lived through her many descendants; she was the proud grandmother of 19 grandchildren and the great-grandmother of 21 great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her three siblings: Patricia Griffiths of Fredonia, NY; James (Linda) DeAngelo of Brocton, NY; and Loretta (Bruno) Delsorbo of Fredonia, NY. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents, two  sons who passed away at birth, Richard and Joseph and her two granddaughters, Amanda Ruiz and Lucia Ruiz.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the convenience of the family, with the date and time to be announced. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hole-Parker Funeral Chapel in Silver Creek.

 

 

 

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