Ralph Coatsworth Perkins, Jr.
Ralph Coatsworth Perkins, Jr., 91, of Washington, died Thursday October 27, 2022, in his home.
He was born August 5, 1931 in Chicago, IL, the eldest of three sons of the late Ralph C. Perkins, Sr. and Margaret Hitt Perkins.
Ralph was an Eagle Scout and a 1949 graduate of Webster Grove High School in Webster Grove, MO. He attended Grinnell College in Iowa for two years and graduated from The Missouri School of Mines in 1954 with a degree in mining engineering.
He served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He then worked in the mining industry for 35 years in Missouri and Pennsylvania, and then worked at the Military Ocean Terminal in Southpoint, NC for seven years.
Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Sonja. Also surviving are three daughters, Cindy (Doug) McKenzie of Monahans, Tex., Kathy Perkins of Cape Coral, Fla., and Debi Reilly of Ormond Beach, Fla.; a brother, Charles (Carol) Perkins of La Mesa, Calif.; four step sons, Jay (Paula) Nicolella of Wheeling, W.Va., Marc (Christie) Nicolella, Eric Nicolella, both of Amity, and Jeffrey (Arlene) Nicolella of Washington; a step daughter, Dana (Dennis) Nicewander of Boca Raton, Fla., 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law, Becky Perkins, and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are a son, Mike Perkins; grandsons, Justin Perkins and Mark Small; a brother, George Perkins; and first wife, Janet Perkins Thompson.
Ralph had many interests. He and Sonja traveled extensively. They loved opening their home and entertaining family and friends, especially when they lived in North Carolina. He was a blessing to all who knew him.
All services will be private. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Salvation Army at www.salvationarmyusa.org or to the charity of one’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.piattandbarnhillfh.com. Piatt and Barnhill Funeral Directors, Inc., Charles R Piatt, owner/supervisor and Andrew C. Piatt, director.