Ralph Harold Ewing

Ralph Harold Ewing, 98, of Beaumont, Texas, passed away on January 19, 2026, in Beaumont.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Mr. Joe Hudson.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Born in Perry, Oklahoma, on May 29, 1927, he was the son of Ralph William Ewing and Audrey Lucy Bruce Ewing. Ralph was a remarkable individual whose life was characterized by a deep commitment to service and family, and an insatiable passion for his work. A proud veteran, Ralph served in the United States Army during World War II, embodying the courage and dedication that defined his generation. Following his service, he discovered his calling as a draftsman, a profession he embraced wholeheartedly for an incredible 68 years. His career trajectory saw him contribute to numerous iconic projects, including the launching pads at Cape Canaveral, the enchanting buildings of Disney World, the foundation of the United States' first interstate highway system, and the engineering marvel of the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel. Ralph's journey through the world of drafting saw a remarkable evolution from hand drawings to intricate 3D computer-assisted designs, a testament to his adaptability and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Remarkably, he was largely self-taught, excelling in his profession while only attending six months of trade school. Ralph was known for developing the program for 3D coordinate geometry for surveying and layout using the HP Programmable Calculators. His dedication to his craft did not go unnoticed. He was deeply respected by peers and colleagues alike, and he continued to work tirelessly up until his retirement. Even in retirement, his curiosity remained as vibrant as ever; he managed his own investments, followed the political landscape closely, and nurtured his love for dancing. In fact, Ralph was well-known for taking ballroom dancing classes well into his 70s and frequently graced the dance floor at the Pompano Club in Port Arthur, sharing joy and grace with those around him. His faith played a pivotal role in his life. A long-time member of North Orange Baptist Church, Ralph served as an usher and imparted wisdom as a Sunday school teacher, fostering a sense of community and support for many. He was a faithful Christian, providing love and guidance to his family, which he cherished above all else. His legacy lives on as a caring and devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend. To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as "Pawpaw," a title that reflects both their admiration of him and the warmth he shared with them. Ralph's life was not only about the work he accomplished and the projects he contributed to; it was also about the love he spread to all who knew him. He will be remembered fondly, leaving a profound impact on family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Audrey Ewing; his wives, Ena Matte and Janice Kennedy; his son, Dean Ewing; his granddaughter, Libby Ewing; and his brother, Lloyd Ewing.

He is survived by his children, Ralph Ewing, Jr. and wife, Wanda, Cindy Mulvaney and husband, Chuck, and Regina Ferguson and husband, Bobby; his daughter-in-law, Cathy Ewing; his grandchildren, Missy Gay and husband, Keith, Audra Wood and husband, Robert, Chad Mulvaney, Phillip Stone and wife, Justina, and Jessica Billy and husband, Biniorson; his great-grandchildren, Austin Gay, Angelina Mulvaney, Jayce Stone, Laine Billy, Madison Wood, Brittany Wood, Lana Jarvis, and Weston Meyer; his great-great grandchild, Jacob Gay; his brother, Bruce Ewing; and numerous other loving family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Tunnel for Towers or to your favorite local charity.

The services for Ralph will be livestreamed for the ones who are unable to make it. The livestream can be found under his obituary on. https://www.claybarfuneralhome.com/