John Neville Ralsten, MD, 89, of Vienna, West Virginia, passed away on December 6, 2025.
John was born in Beckley, West Virginia, to Lucille Campbell and Matthew Murrill Ralsten Sr., MD. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, he attended Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. Following medical school at West Virginia University, he completed his residency at Duke University. He married his beloved wife, Catherine Carol Keesee Ralsten, in 1962.
An Army veteran, John began his career in radiology at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He later relocated his family to Vienna, West Virginia, where he continued his medical career until his retirement.
John enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, including skiing and vintage car racing. Above all, he cherished time with his family. He was especially proud of his five children and made a point to take each child on a special summer vacation of their choosing, creating many treasured memories.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew Murrill Ralsten Sr., MD, and Lucille Campbell Ralsten; his wife, Carol Ralsten; his daughter, C. Haynes Wuthrich, MD; as well as his brother, Matthew Murrill Ralsten Jr., and his wife, Helen Banda Ralsten.
John is survived by his loving children: Matthew M. Ralsten III, MD, of Fayetteville, Georgia; John B. Ralsten (Wendy) of Vienna, West Virginia; Molly Ralsten Muse (Edward) of Macon, Georgia; and Sally Ralsten Krell (Jonathan) of Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren—Beck, Matt, Helen Claire, Murrill, Jack, Sadye, and Amelia—and his great-grandsons, Deacon and Benji, as well as cousins.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Leavitt Funeral Home of Parkersburg is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beckley Area Foundation, Dr. Matthew Murrill and Lucille C. Ralsten Fund for the Wildwood House Museum.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.leavittfuneralhome.com.
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