Ralph Spicer

Ralph Spicer, 85, a devoted educator and legendary basketball coach within the Fairborn City School System, passed away on May 2, 2026. Born on March 15, 1941, in Canoe, Kentucky, Ralph carried the values of his roots with him throughout his life.

Ralph was the cherished husband of Dotty (Spencer) Spicer for an extraordinary 61 years. Together, they built a life defined by unwavering love and a shared commitment to their community. A lifelong fan of the Kentucky Wildcats and Cincinnati Reds, Ralph was never happier than when he was debating a recent game or sharing his vast wisdom and stories with friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Nannie (Little) Spicer; sisters, Myrtle Chadwick, Dora Jennings, Helen Deaton; brothers, Mitchel Edward, Earl, Charlie, Logan Spicer, William Spicer, Virgil Spicer.

Ralph’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Dotty; niece, Kathy (Chadwick) Bruggeman; nephew, Lenville Turner, both of whom provided special care and support. Cherished lifelong friend and sister-in-law, Monella (Roscoe) Keene. He is also survived by a large, loving network of nieces, nephews, and extended family. Above all, Ralph treasured time spent with those he loved; his warmth, guidance, and sharp wit left an indelible mark on generations of students and athletes.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 PM, Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, OH, 45324. The family will receive visitors from 12:00 PM, NOON, until the time of service, Pastor Lowell Lay officiating. Burial to follow at the Byron Cemetery, Fairborn, OH. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation. https://donors.diabetes.org/ 

Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, Fairborn, OH.