Paris, Tenn.–Long-time Paris Board of Public Utilities member Ralph C. Anderson Sr. passed away Wednesday at his Paris home. He was 87.
Anderson also was a long-time member of the Henry County Commission, representing the former District 6.
Anderson was on the BPU board since 1992 and was a founding member of the Paris Utility Authority, of which he was proud. He was currently Vice Chairman of the BPU board.
BPU officials said Thursday afternoon, “It is with great sadness that we share the news of our board member Mr. Ralph Anderson’s passing. Mr. Anderson proudly served as Vice Chairman on the Paris BPU board and started his tenure as a member in 1992. His quiet but strong leadership has been an asset to our board for over 30 years. He was a consistent voice of support and appreciation for the employees of our utility. Our greatest sympathy is expressed to Ms. Pat and all of the family. Mr. Ralph will be greatly missed.”
Anderson worked at the HC Spinks Clay Co. for 48 years on the site of the former Camp Tyson. He was a member and deacon of Birds Creek Baptist Church. He served many years in the Tennessee National Guard. He was a long-standing member of the Henry County Commission, as well as serving on many other local and community groups.
Ralph was born May 28, 1934, in Henry, TN, to the late William (W.L.) Anderson and the late Minnie Lee Sinclair Anderson.
He was married April 16, 1955, to Patsy Ruth Mustain Anderson, who survives, of Paris.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two children, Renee’ (Joey) Cooper of Camden, TN, and Ralph C. Anderson Jr. (Lisa) of Columbus, OH; one sister, Betty Borens of Clarksville, TN; four grandchildren, Joseph JJ Cooper, Lindsey (Matt) Them, Ralph C. Anderson III (friend Marcie Purdy), and Jenny Cooper; two great grandchildren, Aiden and Ava Them; and several nieces, nephews and close family friends.
Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by one sister; and four brothers.
Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street/PO Box 788, Paris, TN 38242. Visitation will be Friday, February 25, 2022, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home, and continue Saturday, February 26, 2022, from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. The funeral service will be Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 2:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home, with Bro. Kevin Gallimore officiating.
Burial will be in Birds Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in the Whitlock community of Paris, TN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Birds Creek Baptist Church, 2245 Whitlock Road, Paris, TN 38242 or to the charity of your choice.