Ralph Oppy

Major Ralph Derryberry Oppy (USAF Retired), born July 7th, 1947, died on the 14th of June 2025. He passed away at home with his wife of over fifty years by his side.

Family was critically important to Ralph, and he claimed that his greatest accomplishments were his two sons. Ralph is survived by his wife, Mary, McLain “Mac” (his wife, Roxanne) and Turner, and his two bonus grandchildren Constance Sermons Crosby and Pvt Hayden Sermons (USMC), and his frisbee-dog Tink.

Ralph was active in the church wherever he was stationed and served as the Deacon of Finances at the Thomaston Road Church of Christ. He was passionate about people and helping those in need. Ralph would personally distribute food to and pray with families in need. He also taught personal finance classes to both adults and teens.

Ralph retired with distinction in 1990 after serving 20 years in the United States Air Force. He volunteered for a delayed enlistment program during the Vietnam War while he completed his Bachelor of Science degree at Troy State University. Ralph was a decorated officer and was most proud of earning the Air Medal, for acts of valor during aerial operations in support of actual combat. After serving his country his career varied until he found his calling as an honest car salesman. He was willing to give up a sale to prevent a customer from overextending their finances. He was a true “car guy” and enjoyed all aspects of cars from wrenching to racing. Ralph retired from the car business in 2008.

Much of Ralph’s adult life was spent chasing a golf ball. He was a member of River North Country Club and was able to play his favorite golf course in the world, Carnoustie Golf Links (in Scotland), multiple times.

Ralph was active in his community and worked closely with the Boy Scouts of America and many other service organizations.

It is very easy to say nice things about Ralph, and it is very difficult to say anything bad. He was a good man. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on the 19th of June from 6 to 8 pm at Hart's Mortuary at the Cupola, 6324 Peake Road Macon, GA 31210

The funeral will be held on the 20th of June at noon at Andersonville National Cemetery, Andersonville, GA 31711

Please visit www.hartsmort.com to express condolences.

Hart’s at the Cupola, Hart's Mortuary and Cremation Center, 6324 Peake Rd, Macon, GA 31210 has charge of the arrangements.