Ralph Tolbert

Ralph E. Tolbert, 84, lifelong resident of Chambersburg, passed away on Thursday, July 1, 2021 at home. Born on August 2, 1936 in Chambersburg, he was a son of the late Robert Tolbert and Eva Nuckels Tolbert. He was the widower of Gladys Gayman Tolbert, whom he married on June 20, 1959. She preceded him in death on February 3, 2003.

Ralph graduated from the former Chambersburg High School in 1954, where he excelled as a stand-out athlete. He then attended Clemson University on a full football scholarship. Upon returning to Chambersburg, he founded Ralph E. Tolbert Masonry Inc. in 1960, where he built his business - one brick at a time. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, and also held memberships at the Chambersburg Club, Charles Nitterhouse VFW Post 1599, Burt J. Asper American Legion Post 46, and the Chambersburg Country Club, where he served as a Past President. Some of his favorite pastimes included playing golf, fishing, hunting and playing cards.

He is survived by three children, Keith Tolbert Sr. of Chambersburg, Staci Shatzer of St. Thomas, and Kurt (Kerri) Tolbert of Chambersburg; 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and one brother, Michael Tolbert. He will also be greatly missed by his beloved companion, Marlene Foreman; her children, Michael Foreman of Pittsburgh, Lori Heckman and Jill Gilbert, both of Chambersburg; Marlene’s grandchildren and great granddaughter. Ralph was preceded in death by his siblings, Robert “Bunk” Tolbert, Rodney Tolbert, Josephine Littleton, and Loretta Wilcox.

Ralph’s funeral service will be held at 10 am on Wednesday, July 7, in St. Paul United Methodist Church 750 Norland Avenue, Chambersburg, with Pastor John Kratz and Pastor Bill Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Parklawns Memorial Gardens. Viewing hours will be held from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 6, in the church. The family will also receive friends one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

Ralph enjoyed flowers so floral tributes are welcome, or if desired, memorial contributions may be made to the “Raise the Roof Fund” at St. Paul United Methodist Church Fund, 750 Norland Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17202. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home.