Ralph Prosser

June 8, 1927 to September21, 2020

Ralph Prosser passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving wife, Elizabeth, at the Ozark Methodist Manor, Marionville, Missouri. Besides Elizabeth, he leaves behind his daughters Debbie and husband Ken; Sharon and husband Jack; and son Terry and wife Mary, as well as eight grandchildren and several very special great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Pat.

Ralph is remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather, as well as a devoted Christian minister of over 40 years. His family enjoyed many summers camping and boating where Ralph drove the boat as everyone waterskied. He loved to fish and could expertly clean a fish in seconds. He also loved to visit his far-flung family with Elizabeth and be visited by his children and grandchildren. Most of all he loved God and ensured his children all found God for themselves.

Ralph was born in Chicago to Sara Myrtle and Ralph Lester Prosser. He was the youngest of seven children, his older siblings all sisters. After a short stint in the Army where he served in Korea during World War II, he converted to Christianity and entered the Salvation Army College. Upon graduation he built a church in St. Louis, MO. Desiring to preach and build rather than serve in administration later, he moved to the Methodist church where he pastored five Missouri churches. His churches included Mt Carmel in Springfield, Windsor United Methodist and Brandon United Methodist, Branson United Methodist and Lebanon First United Methodist. Ralph wore and practiced his faith openly. Each of his churches grew as people responded to his message and love for them and God.

His theology was firmly anchored in the Cross. His ardor for his flock was intense. His love of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit inspiring. His desire to serve consuming. And he did serve each person who placed themselves under his care in each of his churches. His sermons were filled with moving illustrations of the struggles and choices everyone encounters in their life. Ralph, always true to his calling as a pastor and Elder in the Methodist Church, showed people the way to peace with God and salvation through Jesus. He also mentored several future pastors as they grew in their skills. Throughout, Elizabeth supported this work as she shepherded their family and served in various capacities in their churches.

After retirement, he and Elizabeth moved to the Ozark Methodist Manor in Marionville, MO. He served as the Manor chaplain and on the Manor board, where he represented the interests of the residents. He fully retired from service just a few years ago.

At death, the scriptures describe angels being sent to escort believers to their reward. Ralph Prosser made that trip after a life of service to God, his family and his parishioners. Praise God.