Thursday, December 11, 2025 11:42 am

Ralph E. McDonald, 73, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 8, 2025 at his home. Born April 6, 1952 in Gaston County, NC, he was the son of the late Charles McDonald and Rittie Gilreath McDonald and was also preceded in death by his infant daughter April McDonald. Ralph served his country honorably in the US Army with the 101st Airborne during the Vietnam War, then returned home to a fulfilling career including time spent working at Heiligh-Meyers Furniture in Kings Mountain and at Aaron's until his retirement. Ralph was a man of many hobbies. He was a skilled wood-worker, a model car enthusiast, and enjoyed the Blue Angels air show. Ralph also enjoyed sports, a lifelong NASCAR fan with seats at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and was a longtime season ticket holder for the Gastonia Grizzlies. He loved traveling with his family, including trips to the beach, Cherokee, NC, to Florida, and taking cruises. Most of all, Ralph embraced his role in life as a loving father, devoted husband, and dedicated "PawPaw Ralph" to his grandchildren and great-granddaughters. He leaves his loved ones with a lifetime of laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories.

SURVIVORS: Wife of 8 years, Sharon Ross Vassey, of the home
Children: Amy Knight (Adam) of Gastonia, NC, Ashley Crump of Gastonia, Joshua "Josh" Vassey (Rebecca) of Kings Mountain, and Jennifer Proctor (Jonathon "Jon"), also of Kings Mountain
Siblings: Sandy McDonald of Gastonia, David McDonald (Amy) of Kings Mountain, and Ricky McDonald (Crystal) of Forest City, NC
Grandchildren: Jared (Bailee), Machaela (Dale), Tyler, Mackenzie, Parker, and Paisley
Great-granddaughters: Ashlynn, Lilly, and Delilah
Ralph is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, special family friend Juanita Kirk, and his beloved canine companion Jade.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Scott Whitener officiating

VISITATION: Tuesday, December 16, 2025, prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. in the parlor at Harris Funeral Home

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA