Ralph Bruce Isley

Ralph Bruce "Papa Bear" Isley, 71, went home to be with our Heavenly Father, who he loves so much, on Sunday, March 6, 2022, at 1:20 am; over 3 years after being given only 6 weeks to live - a testament to Ralph's trust in God, the power of prayer, and God's healing.

Born in Detroit, Michigan on June 1, 1950, his family moved to Northfield when he was 11. From there he met his wife of 50 years in Ravenna, Ohio, where they moved and raised their family. They moved to Tallmadge 14 years ago.

Ralph was a "real, live phone man" and loved every minute of working in the communications field.  He had many stories to prove it, but then again, he loved everything. He found the joy, wonder, and adventure in anything, no matter how big or small. He loved his family beyond measure and loved sharing his other interests with them at every opportunity. Everything he did, he did with family. He loved the outdoors, specifically woods and lakes, and walking barefoot. He enjoyed driving, music, singing, Lord of the Rings, Mopar muscle cars, trains, tall ships, and riding roller coasters. He loved baking cookies with his granddaughters; watching football, Grand Tour, and Looney Tunes with his sons and grandsons; dinners with his wife and daughter; watching his wife paint; going on family vacations; and helping his family whenever and however he could.

He also loved people and conversation. If you had the pleasure of meeting Ralph, you would immediately become a lifelong friend. He valued everyone he met. His personality was as large as his smile and his laugh and booming, but gentle voice filled any room he was in. His sense of humor was infectious and joyful.

Other than family and friends, the most important part of his life was faith. He studied the Bible daily for hours. He was in constant prayer and worship, and he loved Jesus like none other. He loved to teach, share, and train other believers. He would take as much time with you as you needed and wanted. His wisdom, strength, and knowledge were a gift and he shared them with as many people as possible, whether you lived next door or halfway across the world. He led a home church at various times and was the author of a book of proverbs simply titled "120".

He had the strength and courage of a lion with the heart of a lamb. He was a joy to be around and is already greatly missed. Thank you to all family and friends, near and far, who joined us in prayer these past 3 years. You are a blessing.

"QUB!"

He was greeted in Heaven by his parents, Ralph and Helen Isley; brother, Douglas; sister, Cynthia; and grandson, Silas.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gerna; sons, Joshua (Jennifer) Isley and Jeremiah (Sarah) Isley; daughter, Elizabeth (Adam) Schaeffer; and sister, Janice (Rob) Davis. He is Papa Bear to 5 grandchildren: Xavier, Cooper, Bishop, Eowyn, and Violet, and has many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 1:00 until 4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 13, 2022, at the Donovan Funeral Home, 17 Southwest Ave. (On the Historic Tallmadge Circle).

Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, March 14, 2022, at the funeral home.

Interment will be at Tallmadge Cemetery.