Powell Ralph Gassiott III

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Powell Ralph Gassiott III, who departed this earth on March 23, 2026. Ralph, as he was fondly known, graced this world on August 5, 1941, in Liberty, Texas, and spent 84 years enriching the lives of everyone he encountered. Born to Powell Ralph Gassiott, Jr. and Edna Sue Gassiott, Ralph grew up with a strong sense of family and community, values he carried throughout his life. Predeceased by his parents, his cherished brother Thomas Gassiott, and his beloved wife of 50 years, Joanna Gassiott, Ralph's legacy continues through the lives of his surviving family: his son, Kyle Gassiott; his daughter, Karri Sanders and her husband Joe; his daughter, Kristin Wagner and her husband Greg; his devoted brothers, Glenn Gassiott and Tim Gassiott; and his nine adored grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and pride. Ralph's journey was marked by exemplary accomplishments and deep-rooted commitments. A graduate of Cleveland High School in 1959, Ralph was celebrated as "Best All Around Boy" and shone as an all-district football player and a member of the National Honors Society. His academic pursuits led him to East Texas Baptist College, where he was nominated as a freshman representative on the Student Council, before transferring to Baylor University. There, he joined Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity, and the Seventh and James Baptist Church, ultimately graduating with a degree in history and a minor in religion in 1963. He furthered his education at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, earning a Master of Business Administration. Ralph dedicated 42 years of his professional life to the insurance industry, working with State Farm and Mutual of Omaha. His career was distinguished by numerous service awards, recognizing his unwavering work ethic and servant leadership. Beyond his professional commitments, Ralph served on the Appraisal Review Board of Midland County from 2017 to 2025, contributing his time and expertise to the community he loved. For 56 years, Ralph was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Midland. He and Joanna counseled engaged couples, taught Sunday school, and Ralph took great pleasure in guiding the Royal Ambassadors. His service as a deacon and on various committees, including the benevolence committee, reflected his commitment to his faith and his community. Known for his storytelling and teaching, Ralph continued to volunteer in the children's ministry, captivating young minds with Bible stories and lessons. A man of many interests, Ralph was an ardent football enthusiast, dedicating his Saturdays to cheering on the Baylor Bears and the Dallas Cowboys. His love for the sport was matched only by his love for engaging with people. Known for his wit and good nature, Ralph had the remarkable ability to make everyone feel at ease with his jokes and stories. His calm and kind presence was a gift to all who knew him, and he never met a stranger. Ralph's warmth and wisdom endured until his final days, as he continued to inspire those around him with his kindness, cleverness, and unwavering spirit. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories of his infectious smile and generous heart. As we celebrate Ralph's extraordinary life, we extend our deepest gratitude for the love and laughter he brought into the world. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and joy—a testament to a life beautifully lived. May his memory be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know him. A service to honor Ralph's life will be held at First Baptist Church in Midland, where his life and legacy will be celebrated by family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.