Ralph B. Sheffield, Jr., 86, passed away on August 27, 2026 at his home in Woodstock, Georgia. Ralph was born on January 14, 1940 in Decatur, GA to Ralph and Harriette Sheffield. He graduated from Landon High School, Jacksonville, FL in 1957. Ralph was a proud Georgia Bulldog and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1963. While at UGA, he met Laurel, his wife of 58 years, and he was a loyal member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. He also served in the U.S. Coast Guard.

After graduating from UGA, Ralph began his career in sales and marketing with Gulf Oil Company. He remained with Gulf and retired from its successor company, BP Oil, after 30 years. For the last 30 years, he has operated Towne Lake BP with his son, Tom. He loved the gasoline business and was proud of his accomplishments in the industry.

Sports were a big part of Ralph’s life, particularly football. UGA football was not to be interfered with and he caught every game on TV or radio if he couldn’t be there in person. Ralph was an excellent coach and coached his sons’ football and baseball teams in Jacksonville for many years. He was also involved in starting the Brierwood Athletic Association in the early 1970’s. Outside of sports, he loved to watch a good western or WWII movie. His favorite was “The Longest Day” and he always assumed everyone knew it as well as he did!

Ralph’s three grandchildren and great granddaughter were his pride and joy. He and Laurel hosted the 3 grandchildren for a week every summer. It was always fun to see how worn out everyone was at the end of that week.

The family is grateful for the relationship he shared with Sarah Kaiser the last few years.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Laurel, and his sister, Kay Coffey. Ralph is survived by his sons, David Sheffield (Meg) of Jacksonville, FL and Tom Sheffield (Cammie) of Canton, GA, his grandchildren, Lindsay Tragemann (Nick) of Jacksonville, FL, Justice Bates (Chuck) and Thomas Sheffield of Canton, GA, and his great-granddaughter, Laurel.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation at Gary Sinise Foundation.