Ralph Charles Carlson

Ralph Charles Carlson, 94, of Marion, Ark., passed away on August 11, 2020, in his home. He was born October 30, 1925, to Walter and Emma Carlson, in Memphis, Tenn. Ralph was a graduate from Crawfordsville High School, and began farming at the age of 19, at a time when you still ploughed by hand with the assistance of mules. He thoroughly enjoyed woodworking and has made several cherished pieces of furniture for his family and friends. Ralph really enjoyed taking something old and making it new again. Ralph was also an avid tennis player, and won three gold medals at the Arkansas Senior Olympics (1991, 1992, and 2000), plus the Arkansas Senior Indoor Championship at the age of 73, also including several couples league titles at the University Club of Memphis. Ralph and his two brothers played an instrumental role in the founding of Fidelity National Bank, and was a recipient of West Memphis Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award, plus served on the Board of Directors for Crittenden Memorial Hospital. In addition, Ralph was an ardent Razorback and Cardinals fan, and enjoyed watching the games with his family and friends. He was a faithful member of Trinity in the Fields Anglican Church. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, and his daughter, Melanie Carlson. Those left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 71 years, Dixie Carlson; his two sons, Ralph "Bubba" Carlson (Rhonda) and Mark Carlson (Cathy); his daughter, Christie Carlson (Keith); his six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; his brother, William Carlson; and his three excellent caregivers: Earlene, Delores, and Daretha. A graveside service will be held at Crittenden Memorial Park Pavilion, 2206 US-64, Marion, Ark., on Thursday, August 13, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at: RollerFuneralHomes.com/WestMemphis