Ralph Julian Bandy

Ralph J. Bandy, a well known Cleveland businessman, passed away at home on August 13, 2016 in Cleveland at the age of 85. He was an active and dedicated member of the Big Springs United Methodist Church since the early 1950s.

He graduated from Murray County High School in 1948 and married Elizabeth “Betty” Bryant in 1950. He served in the United States Army from 1951 until 1953 and received an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Sergeant. He was a member of the American Legion and Sons of the American Revolution.

He returned to Cleveland after his military service where he worked at Sherwin Williams Paint Store as a sales clerk. He was promoted to outside sales representative and retired with 27 years of service. He then owned and operated Cleveland Paint and Decorating on Keith Street for 22 years, from 1985 until 2007. Many relied on his skill and expertise as a “Master Color Mixer” to provide the perfect paint color prior to the use of computer technology.

He was a devoted and loving husband of 65 years, father, and Papaw. He loved camping, fishing and was an avid gardener. His love for his family was immeasurable. His family was his greatest joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Itzel and Cleta Bandy; five brothers: Jackie Bandy, Bernard Bandy, Gordon Bandy, Jerry Bandy, and William “Billy” Bandy; and sister-in-law, Eileen Bandy.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth “Betty” Bandy; sons, Mark and wife Kathy, and Scott and wife Sarah; grandchildren: Drew Bandy of Nashville, Deryk Bandy, Blythe and husband Ty Ledford, and Olivia Bandy all of Cleveland; brother, Harold (Aline) Bandy of Dalton, GA; sisters-in-law, Glenda Bandy, Johnnie Bandy and Roberta Bandy all of Cleveland. Several nieces and nephews and a host of friends also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Fike-Randolph & Son Funeral Home with Reverend Ray Petty and Reverend Terry Huffer officiating. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ralph’s life. Interment will follow in Sugar Creek Cemetery in Bradley County with Military Honors. Extended family members will serve as pallbearers.

His family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the Tennessee Oncology Center, Dr. Tran, and Avalon Hospice for their care.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Bandy family guestbook at www.fikefh.com