OBITUARY: Ralph Emerson Fuqua

Ralph Fuqua, 86, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather (“Do-Daddy”) passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, with his cherished wife and daughter by his side.

Ralph was born on November 7, 1939, in Springfield, Tennessee, to Charles M. Fuqua and Larena Fuqua. Springfield was home during his early years, and after graduating from Springfield High School in 1957, he continued his education at Tennessee Tech and the University of Tennessee.

On February 18, 1961, Ralph married the love of his life, Margaret Hoskins. For 65 years, they shared a devoted marriage filled with faith, family, and steadfast love. Together they raised two daughters, Julie Rae and Mary Beth, whose memory remained forever close to their hearts after her passing at the age of 10. After a few years in Kentucky, Ralph and Margaret moved to Knoxville in 1967, where they created a warm and welcoming home and built a beautiful life centered around the people they loved most.

Ralph retired from KCDC in 2001, but his greatest work was always the love and care he gave to his family. He treasured being at home, spending time with those he loved, taking family vacations, and enjoying cruises with family and dear friends. Those simple, happy moments became lasting memories for everyone blessed to share them with him.

Ralph’s faith was a steady and important part of his life. He and Margaret were active members of Fountain City Presbyterian Church, where Ralph served faithfully as an elder, before later joining Eastminster Presbyterian Church. He also gave generously of his time through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and UTMC for many years.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Charles M. and Larena Fuqua; his brother, Charles H. Fuqua; and his beloved daughter, Mary Beth Fuqua.

He leaves behind a family who adored him and will carry his love with them always: his wife of 65 years, Margaret; his daughter, Julie Bales (Lloyd); his grandchildren, Rachel Hill (Chris), Aaron Bales (Erika), and Daniel Bales (Alyssa); his great-grandchildren, Jack, Beth, Hensley, Jaxton, and Oliver, due in September; and his nephew and nieces.

The family is deeply grateful to the wonderful staff of UT Hospice for the loving care, kindness, and support they provided to Ralph and his family. Special thank you’s are extended to Rev. Sean White and Jolie (Julia) Kalumbi, whose care and compassion brought comfort and love to the family, as well as to Ashleigh and Tracy, with UT Hospice.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday July 2, 2026, at Rose Funeral & Cremation-Broadway. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Rev. Sean White. Family and friends will gather at 10:45 am Friday, July 3, 2026, at Greenwood Cemetery for an 11:00 am interment service. Pallbearers will be Aaron Bales, Daniel Bales, Chris Hill, David Hoskins, Bobby Davis, and Lloyd Bales.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Ralph’s memory to consider contributing to Eastminster Presbyterian Church, PJ Parkinson’s Support, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online obituary may be viewed and condolences extended at www.rosefuneraltn.com.

For more obituaries visit our obituaries page.

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