RalphRAYRalph was born on 20th October 1930 and reached the grand old age of 95 years.
He was born in Berlin and fled the horrors of Nazi Germany to the UK as an 8 year old in 1938. He also lost his father, Hans, in the Holocaust.
Educated at St Paul's School in London having gained a junior scholarship, he went on to study his degree at the London School of Economics.
He enjoyed his National Service in the army from 1952 - 1953 where he held the rank of Second Lieutenant.
He dedicated his professional life to the law and was a very successful solicitor. He worked for Wedlake Saint for over 35 years and became the senior partner in 1990. He continued to work as a consultant for 11 years until the age of 76 years.
Ralph was a specialist in personal taxation. Throughout his career he lectured across the country often delivering 40 lectures a year. He also wrote several books on personal taxation / inheritance tax including the leading guide for tax lawyers which still bears his name.
Throughout his life he enjoyed many hobbies and pastimes including the theatre, painting, travel, motorbikes, walking and stick whittling.
Ralph had 5 children - Paul, Simon, Emma and twins - Henry & Oliver. His eldest son Paul is also a lawyer and a Liberal Democrat councillor in Lichfield. In 2010 Ralph moved to Lichfield to be near Paul and his family. Paul's family always made Ralph feel enormously welcome and valued. He also had 2 step children (Gillian and Roger) and 2 step grandchildren (Naomi and Molly).
He was extremely fond of all his grandchildren who brought him much joy. He loved sharing his passion for life, the arts and nature with them all.
During his retirement Ralph led an active life and loved living in Lichfield and especially at the Beacon Park Retirement Village. In 2025 he moved to the Kings Bromley Care Home where he felt extremely well cared for.
Ralph will be sorely missed by his five children, sons and daughters in law as well as his 8 grandchildren, step children and grandchildren.
His funeral will take place at the Lichfield & District Crematorium, Fradley Lane, Fradley, Staffordshire, WS13 8GA at 11.30am on Monday 29th June with a reception afterwards at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield WS13 6PR.
May he rest in peace.
The family would welcome donations in memory of Ralph being be made to The Alzheimer's Society via their website or J Howell & Daughters Funeral Directors Lichfield 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield WS13 6TS.
Keep me informed of updates
