John Ralph Purser, 84, died Sept. 14 at Huntsville Hospital, Huntsville.

He was born in Alabama to Jess and Mildred Yielding Purser. He was self-employed as an accountant for more than 40 years. He had worked at TVA and Reynolds Metals and was retired from Gates Rubber Co.

Ralph was a member of Red Bay Free Will Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for approximately 50 years and also served as treasurer, Sunday School teacher and song leader. He coached peewee football for years and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

Services will be Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. at Red Bay Free Will Baptist Church with Bro. Steve Lindsay and Bro. Scott McPeak officiating. Burial will be in Red Bay City Cemetery. Deaton Funeral Home, Red Bay, will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by four children, David Purser (Beth), Jimmy Purser, Liz Hester (David) and Suzanne McPeak (Scott); one sister, Linda Blackburn (Raymond); 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Purser; a daughter, Gina Hardin; two granddaughters, Heather Porter and Amy Hester, his parents; and a brother, Tim Purser.

His grandsons and great-grandsons will serve as pallbearers: Jamie Purser, Adam Hester, Justin Purser, Alex Purser, Dylan Hester, Connor Porter, Noah Hester and Ty Hester.

Visitation will be Sept. 17 from 1-3 p.m. at Red Bay Free Will Baptist Church.