Ralph Meers

Ralph Martin Meers, 85, of Dallas, Georgia, passed away on October 2, 2025. Ralph was born in Draketown, GA on November 28, 1939. Ralph lived a remarkable life devoted to family, faith, and the fight for fairness and dignity for all people.

From humble beginnings, Ralph became one of Georgia’s most respected labor leaders. For 53 years, he served as President of his local union, where he championed the rights of working families with passion and integrity. In 1973, he created a Health and Welfare Trust Fund, later expanding it to include a supplemental pension and 401(k) plan to ensure workers could retire with dignity and security.

Ralph was honored in 1985 as Labor Leader of the Year and received multiple recognitions throughout his career. His work earned the respect of presidents and governors alike, and he was awarded an honorary degree from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. His life's work has been preserved in the archives of Georgia State University to serve as a resource and inspiration for future generations.

An advocate for the underdog and a tireless voice for the vulnerable, Ralph’s influence extended far beyond labor. He was a steadfast supporter of civil rights, marching alongside Coretta Scott King and standing firm in his commitment to justice and equality. A lifelong member of the Democratic Party, Ralph met with multiple presidents and governors over the years, earning their appreciation for his enduring advocacy on behalf of the working man.

Faith was central to Ralph’s life. A devoted member and deacon at First Baptist Church Powder Springs, he offered spiritual guidance and unwavering support to his congregation. He was also a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge, recently recognized as one of its longest-serving members, and a proud Shriner.

Ralph lived by a simple principle: “I did it because it was the right thing to do.” Those words guided every decision he made. He was selfless, loyal, inspirational, and deeply beloved. He could fiercely debate his beliefs, negotiate with precision, and still end every conversation with kindness and generosity.

Beyond his public achievements, Ralph was most proud of his role as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and father-in-law. He was married to the love of his life, Sarah Frances Akins Meers, for 53 years until her passing in 2011. His three daughters—Debra Bailey, Patricia (Richard) Turner, and Teresa (Louis) Hill—were his pride and joy. He cherished time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially his grandson Ben, with whom he shared early morning rides “to the mountain,” vanilla coffee, and long, meaningful conversations.

Ralph had a deep love for the outdoors. He found joy in gardening, watching the wildlife around his farm, and tending to his muscadine vines and blueberry bushes—so impressive that the Paulding County Agricultural Department often asked for clippings. He was particularly fond of his “toys”—excavators, tractors, and 4-wheelers. If he wasn’t working on them, he was playing on them, usually surrounded by family.

Whether sharing a box of macaroni and cheese, passing along fresh muscadines, or offering a heartfelt prayer, Ralph made sure that everyone he encountered felt seen and supported. His prayers could move hearts. His leadership commanded respect. His love filled every room.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest Turk and Myrtle Beatrice Meers; his beloved wife, Sarah Frances Akins Meers; his sister Shirley Ann Meers; his brother Bobby Meers; and his granddaughter, Samantha Regla Smith.

He is survived by his daughters Debra Bailey, Patricia Turner and her husband Richard, and Teresa Hill and her husband Louis; three sisters; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and extended family who will carry his love and legacy forward.

Ralph’s purpose in life was always clear: to make the world a better, fairer place. To honor his memory, the family invites you to do the same—call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, stand up for what you believe in, or help someone in need. That’s how Ralph lived every day, and it’s how his legacy will live on.

A memorial service will be planned and announced, so that those who knew and loved Ralph can gather to celebrate his extraordinary life.

You may share your thoughts and condolences at www.samclarkfuneralhome.com.

Clark Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the services for Mr. Ralph Martin Meers.