Ralph Wheeler South

Ralph Wheeler South passed away on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on Monday, July 17th, 1939, in Danville, to the late Claude Houston South and Una Harriet Plaster South.

Ralph was a graduate of George Washington High School, Class of 1957, and he served his country honorably in the United States Army. Ralph refereed basketball in the ACC for over 30 years. He also worked as a salesman for Salem Tools. Ralph was a 33rd degree Mason in the Roman Eagle Lodge for more than 50 years. He served on the Board of Directors and as Secretary at Roman Eagle Nursing Home and served on the board for the Salvation Army. Ralph's passion for golf was well-known, and he cherished the memory of being a caddy for the legendary Bobby Mitchell.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife of 9 years, Nancy South; his children, Kelly Barnett and Peyton South; and his grandchildren, Jessica Barnett, Dylan South, Ryan Neese, and Cayman Neese. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Damian Herndon and Ariella Herndon, and his daughter-in-law, Allison Neese. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Claude Houston South and Una Harriet Plaster South, his son Randy South, his stepson Randy Neese, and his sister Nancy South.

A visitation will be held at Fairview Church in Danville, VA, on Tuesday, October 27th, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am, officiated by Pastor Ryan Beavers. The family has entrusted arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main St., Danville, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Danville Area Humane Society.