Ralph was born on January 22, 1923 in Rutherford County, NC to the late John C. Padgett and Mary Willie Putnam Padgett.  He was a US Navy Veteran of World War II and a longtime member of Holly Springs Baptist Church.  He worked in textiles for 20 years and farmed cotton, soybeans and watermelons for over 50 years. 

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Ruth Cole Padgett and one brother, Clark Padgett.   

     Survivors include one daughter, Treva Padgett Roche of Forest City; one brother, Howard Padgett and wife, Joyce of Caroleen; one sister, Frances Kimbrell of Spartanburg, SC; one granddaughter, Wendy Rector of Forest City; two great-grandchildren, Joshua Rector and Justin Rector both of Forest City; two great-great-grandchildren, Alana Ezell and Hayden Rector.

     Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at Holly Springs Baptist Church with Reverend Wade Huntley officiating.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery with military honors being accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the church.

     Harrelson Funeral Home is caring for the Padgett Family.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com