James R. Ralph, 59, of Utica, formerly of Brooklyn, passed away July 4, 2009 at his home. James was born in Brooklyn on April 28, 1950, the son of Dennis and Shirley (Willis) Ralph. He was raised and educated in Brooklyn. James served his country with the US Marines during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed reading and watching movies at home. James was of the Catholic faith. James is survived by his daughter, Anita Speller, Utica; his father, Dennis Ralph, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Lascelles, Julie Anne, Ashley and Andrew Speller; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Donna Ralph, Utica, Doreen Ralph and her husband, Anthony Fogg, Utica; three brothers, Hilton Ralph, North Carolina, Gerard Ralph, North Carolina, Ricardo Ralph, Utica; his companion, Bernadette Moore, Utica. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends including Gloria Speller of Brooklyn. James is predeceased by his mother, Shirley, and his brother, Edmond Ralph. Mr. Ralph's funeral will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 10:00 am at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. Interment, with military honors, will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery on Monday, July 13, 2009 at 10:00 am. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Friday evening from 4 - 7 pm. Those wishing may donate to a substance abuse program of your choice in James' memory.