The community of Lisbon, Ohio, is joined in a state of “profound and sudden mourning” following the unexpected passing of Ralph Leroy Jones, Jr. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. A lifelong resident of the area, Ralph passed away in the emergency room at Salem Regional Medical Center at the age of 64. His departure has left a significant void in Columbiana County, where he was respected as a dedicated worker, a passionate coach, and a devoted family man who embodied the hardworking spirit of his hometown.
Born and raised in Salem, Ralph was a graduate of Lisbon David Anderson High School and honed his skills at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center. For 21 years, he served as a molder at Quaker City Castings, where his reliability and expertise were hallmarks of his long tenure. Beyond his professional life, Ralph was a pillar of the local sports community; he spent many years coaching soccer at United Local School District and was a fervent supporter of the Columbiana County Special Olympics. An avid fan of the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes, he also found personal joy in weightlifting and staying active within the community he loved.
Above all his interests, Ralph’s heart belonged to his family. He shared nearly 28 years of marriage with his wife, Janet Faye Jones, and took immense pride in his children—Curtis, Nicole, Michelle, Michael, and Ryan. He was a doting grandfather to eight grandchildren, creating “lasting memories” of support and laughter that will resonate for generations. To those who knew him, Ralph was a man of “steady character” who prioritized his roles as a husband, father, and mentor.
