Ralph Maurice Wann

Ralph Maurice Wann, 88, of Jonesboro, passed away July 23, 2018, at NEA Hospital. He was born November 11, 1929 to Everett and Cora Wann near Calamine, Arkansas.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Everett Jr. and Max, and his first wife Mary Frances (Fudge) Wann.

Survivors include his second wife of 11 years, Mary Catherine (Horton) Wann; daughter, Janet (Bernie) Simpson; sons Roger (Cindy) Wann and Brian Wann; brothers Van (Joyce) Wann and Carlton (Mary Jo) Wann; four grandchildren, Jarrett Wann and Zachary, Malory, and Luke Simpson; two stepsons, Stephen and David Horton; and a host of cousins and nieces and nephews.

Ralph proudly served in the Air Force during the Korean War, from 1950-54. He was stationed at Harmon Air Force Base, near Stephenville, Newfoundland, an early warning radar and communications site, acting as a radar repairman. After he was discharged, Ralph began working for the Federal Aviation Administration as an electronics technician. He retired from the FAA after 37 years of service. Ralph enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, and amateur radio. He was a member of the Jonesboro Amateur Radio Club with a call sign of KB5ADC. Ralph was an active member of St. Paul United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 28, at 10:00 am, prior to funeral services at 11:00 am, at St Paul United Methodist Church, 2201 S. Culberhouse, with Rev. Billy Vanderbilt officiating. Eulogy will be given by Delbert Stone. Pallbearers will be Roger Wann, Brian Wann, David Wann, Bernie Simpson, Luke Simpson, and Andrew Gaskill. Honorary pallbearers will be members of St. Paul Wesleyan Class. Burial will follow at Jonesboro Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider the St. Paul UMC Founders’ Hill Memorial Fund.