Ralph Eugene Perkins, 88 of Willow Springs, MO. passed away on February 22, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO. Ralph was born on July 13, 1937, in Willow Springs to Justin Eli Perkins and Elma Narciss (Bridges) Perkins. He graduated from Willow Springs High School in 1955 and went on to work in the timber industry as a logger, woodcutter, carpenter and woodcarver.
Ralph was known for his sense of humor, his many talents and his kind heart. He was a devoted father and grandfather who cherished time spent with family and friends. He was a champion horseshoe thrower and a gifted master woodcarver, sharing his carvings across the country. Notable works include the large Bear at the Munford Gym in Willow Springs, multiple life-sized Indians and Hillbillies, & countless tree trolls carved from stumps he cut after the winter storm of 2007, transforming destruction into lasting beauty. Ralph was also a professional musician who brought joy to so many through his harmonica, guitar, banjo and fiddle. He played at gatherings, churches and Weaver’s Barn in Mountain View, and the Star Theatre in Willow Springs, filling each place with music and warmth that will not be forgotten. After retirement, Ralph enjoyed reading Western novels and whittling (especially walking sticks). He couldn’t stay out of the woods for long though and cut occasional loads of firewood for friends and family. He enjoyed attending sporting events at Willow Springs High School and watching every kind of sport on television, especially basketball and football. He spent most mornings drinking coffee with friends in cafes and telling jokes and stories. He was often seen walking his beloved pet dogs Chewy and Hondo with his metal detector in many locations about town.
Ralph is survived by his 5 children; Donna Kay Holt (Oscar), Angela Joyce “Angie” Ball (Charley), Judith Lynn “Judy” Wozniak (Adam), Mandy Eugenia Clarke, and Ryan Williamson Perkins & 10 grandchildren; Brent, Coty, and Benjamin Holt, Leslie Brown and Korey Brown, Dakota Wozniak and Zane Moore, Noah Clarke, Sofie Clarke, and Hope Bower, and 5 great-grandchildren; Noah Holt & Olivia Holt, Riley Brown & Henry Brown, and Alistair Wozniak. He is also survived by his siblings; Caroline Roper, Ellen Fullen, Ray Perkins, Helen Campbell, Janice Burns, and Jessie Bennett and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and greats.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Nila Joyce (Lovan) Perkins; his father, Justin, his mother, Elma and his stepfather, Ray Albin Perkins; his siblings, Justine Benedict, Velma Walker, Sonya Perkins, Justin Perkins, Willie Perkins, Mary Taylor, Jimmy Perkins, & Baby Boy Perkins.
A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held on February 27, 2026, at Westside Family Life Center at 1274 County Road 5270, Willow Springs, MO. Visitation begins at 1 pm followed by services at 2 pm. Interment will follow at Willow Springs City Cemetery.
Ralph’s warmth, kindness, music and jokes touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
