Ralph Aaron Clemons was born on March 16, 1938, to the late George and Willie Louise Clemons in Kensington, GA (now Chickamauga). He was the third of ten children. He passed away peacefully at his home on May 5, 2025.

Ralph received Christ at an early age and joined Marbletop Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir. He loved singing and was a member of the gospel singing trio, The Gospel Silvertones, traveling and performing at many venues in Tennessee and Georgia. He became well known for his rendition of “Mary, Don’t You Weep.” From a young age, he showed the grit and determination that would define his life. He left school early to help support his family, embodying a strong sense of responsibility and dedication. That same spirit carried him through a lifelong career as an auto body repairman—a trade he not only mastered but truly loved.

In 1966, Ralph moved his family to Ohio for a better life. He worked at Way Auto Body and eventually purchased the business in Cleveland Heights, becoming the first Black business owner in that community. His shop became a cornerstone of the community, known not only for quality work but for Ralph’s honest, straightforward manner and willingness to lend a hand. Over the decades, he earned the trust and respect of countless customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Ralph had an unmatched passion for cars. Whether restoring a classic or simply repairing a neighbor’s engine, he found purpose in his work and joy in solving problems. He was a quiet man, but his actions spoke volumes—kind, reliable, and always willing to help.

Ralph will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on in every life he touched and every vehicle he restored.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, George Clemons Sr. and Willie Louise Clemons Coats, and siblings: Esarlena Clemons, Joseph Clemons, George Clemons Jr., Bradford Clemons, Harold Clemons, and MaryAnn Upshaw.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Linda Clemons. He leaves his loving daughters: Cynthia Bell (Darrick) of Macedonia, OH; Mary Horne (Robert) of Reminderville, OH; Cynthia Taylor of Chattanooga, TN; Belinda Meredith (Rickey) of Bedford, OH; and Katrina Trice (Alain Sr.) of Cleveland Heights, OH. He is also survived by his sons, Dwayne Jones of Macedonia, OH, and Keith Brown Sr. (Carla) of San Antonio, TX. Ralph is lovingly remembered by his brothers, Johnny Clemons (June) of Chattanooga, TN; James Clemons of Chattanooga, TN; and Jeffrey Coats (Tracia) of LaFayette, GA. He was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. He also leaves behind a host of other cherished family members and close friends.