John Anthony Ralston, 84, of Marshall, IL passed away 11:25 PM Tuesday, May 12, 2015 when he became victorious after he had fought and won the battle.

John graduated from Marshall High School in 1948. He served his country in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He worked at the Velsicol Chemical Co. for 28 years. Then, teaming up with his partner, Don Harper, he began doing what he enjoyed the most, carpentry work. Marshall residents need not look too far to see a home that he build, a remodel he accomplished or a piece of furniture he crafted. He was a skilled carpenter.

John's love and servant hood for his family was very apparent. He married Carolyn Veach Brown in 1974. That union brought together their 8 children, which has now grown to 26 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren with 3 more great grandchildren expected to arrive in July and August. He loved his family and loved his wife which was so very apparent.

In addition to his wife Carolyn, he is survived by his three children; Debra (Bob) Blackburn of Riverview, FL, Karen (Marty) Keim of Marshall, IL and Mark (Sheila) Ralston of Marshall, IL; 5 step-children, Terri Elwakad of Virginia, Mike Brown of Oklahoma, Sheryl (Garry) Engerski of Marshall, IL, Mark (Trish) Brown of TN and Mary (Rich) Kash of Marshall, IL along with his legacy of 46 grandchildren, great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and his sister-in-law, Nancy Ralston. John was an excellent example to all who knew him of servant hood.

His first priority was service to his Lord, Jesus Christ. He was a lifetime member of the First Christian Church of Marshall where he served as a deacon and elder for many years and taught a Sunday School class for over 60 years. His service to other began as an Eagle Scout when he was a teenager. As an adult, one was only to ask and he would be there to repair, build, talk, listen, and offer advice when asked. He was giving, warm, humorous and kind.

A celebration of John's life will be held 10:00 AM Saturday at the First Christian Church. A time of visitation and sharing will be 3-7 PM Friday at the church. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the U& I class of the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pearce Funeral Home of Marshall. Online condolences are being accepted at pearcefuneralservices.com