Ralph James Willyoung

Ralph James Willyoung, 75, of Franklin passed away peacefully at home on April 11, 2025 following a brief, courageous battle with lymphoma.

Born on April 19, 1949 in Franklin, he was the son of the late Wayne George and Beulah Cecelia (Baker) Willyoung. He attended Franklin Area Schools before being drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a Specialist 4 in Vietnam.

He married Joyce Dale Ritchey (Ferguson) on September 21, 1985 and she passed away on April 5, 2013.

He worked at various jobs throughout his lifetime including driving cement trucks and over the road trucking, as well as a welder in the local oil fields. His greatest pleasure was taking care of his farm where he had horses and dogs to keep him company.

Ralph was a devoted and proud father of his daughter Beth Ann Willyoung of Franklin. He was “Pops” to two grandchildren Brittni Willyoung (Justin Merryman) and Deven Long; and three great grandsons, Brogen Merryman, Degen and Greysen Long; and a step-great grandson Waylon Merryman.

He is further survived by his former wife Sherri McCandless, with whom he remained friends; his step-daughters Terri (Brian) Felmlee and Debra (Lawrence) Willyoung; and his step grandchildren, Amber Felmlee and her sons Lincoln and Colton Fento, Brian Felmlee and his daughter Sydney, and Sara (Frank) Bish; and his siblings Sam (Connie) Willyoung, Larry Willyoung of Franklin, Margaret “Peg” Baker, Carol Shoup, and Debra (Dennis) Adams.

In addition to his parents, and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers George, Lawrence, and Ronald Willyoung, and his sister Anna Ritchey.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Venango VNA during their time of need, especially nurse Cheryl.

As per his wishes, no public services will be observed at this time and a celebration of Ralph’s life will be announced at a later date.

Ralph will be laid to rest at Morrison Cemetery, Franklin.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ralph’s name to Venango VNA Foundation, 491 Allegheny Blvd, Franklin, PA 16323 and/or V.E.T.S. Honor Guard, PO Box 137, Franklin, PA 16323.

Arrangements are under the care of the Gardinier-Warren Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin, PA 16323.

Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on Ralph’s Book of Memories online at www.WarrenFH.com