Ralph Joseph Poness Sr

Ralph Joseph Poness, Sr. of Needham, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025.

Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Evelyn Marie (nee Antonini), brother Michael Charles Poness and his wife Susan, son Ralph Joseph Poness, Jr and his wife Kim, daughter Antoinette Marie Poness, grandchildren Jeff, Brianna and Brittany, and great-grandchildren Gunner and Daedric and many nieces and a nephew. Ralph was predeceased by his parents Ralph Carlo Poness and Mary Elizabeth Poness (nee Galu).

A lifelong champion of all things educational, Ralph graduated Parsons with a BFA in 1972, Farleigh Dickinson University with an MBA in 1975, and Simmons College with a Master of Education in 2000.  Throughout his successful career, he served as illustrator, graphic designer and creative director for some of the most storied publishing houses and computer companies of the day, including Prentice-Hall and Harcourt Brace, Digital and Lotus. 

Ralph loved all things historical, political and artistic.  With his wry and often mischievous wit, he spent many hours with his family discussing and debating the topics of the day.  He also shared his love of art with his family, always encouraging creative expression and individualism. He was passionately dedicated to many causes, particularly anti-nuclear activism and education.  Ralph will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather and a doting great-grandfather.

Visitation will be held at Eaton Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 28th from 10:30am to 11:30am.  Funeral Mass at St. Joseph’s Church at 11:30am.  Procession to Needham Cemetery on Nehoiden Street directly following the Mass.  Family and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of Ralph’s life at 2:30pm at The Common Room in Needham.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the ASPCA.

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