Lucille P. Ralph, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Erie, PA. She was born on March 17, 1939 in Buffalo, the daughter of the late Joseph and Phyllis DeAngelo.
While born in Buffalo, Lucille spent her early life in Silver Creek before moving to Dunkirk, where she remained a lifelong resident. Known affectionately throughout the community as "Big Lou" -- a name that celebrated her small stature and wonderfully big personality -- she was a beloved figure to all who knew her. For many years, she was a familiar and spirited face at Mary's Deli in Dunkirk, where her hard work and vibrant nature made her a local fixture.
Lucille found her greatest joy in the simple, meaningful things: the challenge of a crossword puzzle, the pride of a home-cooked meal, and the steady presence of her family. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she leaves behind a sprawling legacy of love and devotion.
She is survived by her six children, Ronald (Sheila) Ralph of Pensacola, FL, Marybeth Rivera of Dunkirk, Nicholas Ralph of Amherst, Julie Ruiz of Florida, Carmen (Miguel) Piazza of Miami, FL and Felicia (Wilberto) Rodriguez of Erie, PA; three siblings, Patricia Griffiths of Fredonia, James (Linda) DeAngelo of Brocton and Loretta (Bruno) Delsorbo of Fredonia; along with 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons who passed away at birth, Richard and Joseph; and her two granddaughters, Amanda Ruiz and Lucia Ruiz.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 29 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel RC Church, 165 Central Avenue in Silver Creek.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hole-Parker Funeral Chapel, 160 Central Avenue in Silver Creek.
