Ralph V. Baity, age 89, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Sunday morning, April 14, 2024, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.
He was born July 20, 1934, in Flora, the son of Floyd and Fyrn (Flick) Baity. He was united in marriage to Judy D. Greenwood on April 5, 1959, at Bethlehem Christian Church, and they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
Ralph was an area farmer and had worked at Clay County Hospital in Environmental Services for over 30 years. He was devoted member of Bethlehem Christian Church, serving as a Deacon and Elder, offering guidance and mentorship to fellow members. Over the years Ralph had been very active as a leader in local 4H groups, sharing his love of agriculture with youth. He enjoyed traveling and spending time with family. A practical joker with an infectious laugh, Ralph loved to tease. His family will remember that although he had very strong hands and grip he had a soft, kind heart.
He is survived by his wife: Judy Baity of Flora; son: Kevin (Penny) Baity of Clarksville, Indiana; daughter: Angela (John) Casolari of Flora; grandchildren:
Danielle (Ethan) Craig of Noble, Jerrica (Josh) Jennings of Mt. Zion, Kyle (Hannah) Baity of Flora, Lauren (Connor) Bird of St. Louis, John Casolari of Flora, and Robert Casolari of Flora; great-grandchildren: Kase, Hoyt, Lakelynn, and Gracie; sister: Doris Adomatis of South Carolina; 3 brothers-in-law: Richard (Daryl) Greenwood of Kissimmee, Florida, Thomas (Connie) Greenwood, and Ervin Zimmer of Colorado; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law: Rolla “Sug” and Nora Greenwood; sister: Dorothy Duvick; and a sister-in-law: Alice Zimmer.
A graveside ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Elmwood Cemetery in Flora. Those who wish to attend are asked to arrive directly at the cemetery. Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Memorial donations are suggested to Bethlehem Christian Church, and these will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com