Ralph Lewis Delaria, age 94, of New Castle, Delaware, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026. Ralph was a devoted family man, proud veteran, and lifelong friend to many, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience.
Born in 1931, to Chester and Helen Delaria, Ralph was one of a large and close-knit family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean Delaria, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories, as well as his grandson Bobby and great-granddaughter Savannah.
Ralph is survived by his children: Diane, Christine (Mike), Ralph (Rachael), and Eileen, who will carry forward his strength, humor, and values. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Tony (Jen), Samantha (Dan), Kari, Kaitlin (Andie), Michael (Christine), Angela, Kristin (Greg), Rachel (Tom), Ralphie, and Sarah, and a cherished great-grandfather to Billy, Riley, Dylan, Kayleigh, Maddison, Juliette, Arlo, Emma, Avery, Alexa, Thomas, Donald, Sawyer, William, Olivia, Christina, Robert, and Riley. He also leaves behind great-great-grandchildren Jaxon, John, Julianna, many nieces and nephews and his beloved cat Cheddar.
Ralph was predeceased by several of his siblings: Oril, Donald, Edward, David, Walter, and Doloris. He is survived by his siblings Dorothy and Chuck (Mary Jo), and his life was enriched by the bonds he shared with his brothers and sisters.
A proud veteran, Ralph served as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force, a role he carried with honor and dedication. Following his service, he spent most of his career working at Wilmington Sheet Metal and i his later years driving the shuttle for Delaware Park.
Ralph lived an independent and vibrant life well into his later years. He was known for his lively social circle, often enjoying poker games with friends and spending time at the senior center. He had a passion for reading Western novels, and he loved bowling and golfing whenever he had the chance. A devoted Philadelphia sports fan, Ralph rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Eagles and the Phillies.
Above all, Ralph will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his quick wit, and the joy he brought to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the many lives he touched.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff of the Neuro ICU at Christiana Hospital for their compassion and exceptional care. Their kindness and unwavering support brought comfort during a difficult time and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.
A viewing will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803. A Graveside committal service will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 11:00 am at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Howard Weston Senior Center (www.westonseniorcenter.org) or Forgotten Cats (www.forgottencats.org), in Ralph’s memory.
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