Virginia A. “Jean” Ralph, 99, of Streator passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024 at O.S.F. St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa.

  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 A.M. Wednesday, July 10th at St. Michael the Archangel Church, Streator.

  Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 10th at the Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Streator.

  Burial will be in Lostlands Cemetery in Streator. 

  Born January 12, 1925 in Streator she was the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Kosley) Svetz.  She married Harold “Joe” Ralph on September 9, 1950.  He preceded her in death on August 18, 1978.

  She is survived by a son, Michael (Kathy) Ralph of Streator; a daughter, Joanna (Lisa Herbst) Ralph of West Dundee; grandchildren, Erin (John) Thorp of Streator, Mollie (Brooks) Martin of Streator, Melissa Bayler of Bloomington, Hayley (Andrew) Peterson of Elmwood and Kaitlyn (Zach) Zwaga of Bloomington and 11 great grandchildren.

  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Patrick Ralph and a sister, Alvita Holman.

  Born and raised in Streator she attended St. Stephen’s Grade School and graduated from Streator High School.

  She worked through the years for Lipton Tea and Stewart Insurance in Wenona from where she retired.  She also did Tax preparation.

  She was a member of the former St. Stephen’s Church and Annunciation B.V.M. Church at Eagle.  She was currently a member of St. Michael the Archangel Church, Streator.

  She enjoyed playing Bridge, bowling and playing golf.  She played in various ladies golf leagues.

  Following Jean’s husband’s death due to radiation exposure in the military she became an advocate for veterans with similar issues.  She worked with Congress to pass Legislation to help Veterans that were affected by radiation.  Her passion for this cause led her to traveling extensively all over the world.  She also belonged to Atomic Veterans and the National Association of Radiation Survivors.

  Memorials may be directed to St. Michael the Archangel School.

  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.solontelford.com