Ralph "Tate" K. Dilling Jr.

Ralph K. Dilling Jr. “Tate”, 83, of Delphi, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at IU Health Arnett in Lafayette. Ralph was born on December 20, 1941, in Lafayette, to the late Ralph and Sarah Gladys (McCormick) Dilling.

Ralph was a 1961 Delphi High School graduate. On October 6, 1963, Ralph married the love of his life; Shirley Ann (Robinson) Dilling at Delphi United Methodist Church. They were happily married for over 53 years. Shirley preceded Ralph in death on November 5, 2016.

Ralph proudly served in the United States Army from 1966-1968. After serving Ralph started working for the city in West Lafayette where he worked for the maintenance department for over 33 years before eventually retiring.

In his free time, Ralph enjoyed working on and collecting antique cars, and he loved going to car shows. He was a member of Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Delphi. His most cherished past time was spent with his loving family, and especially his grandchildren.

Surviving Ralph include daughters; Ann Marie (Willie) Stewart, Monica (Scott) Titus, sister; Lenora (Brian) Gooch, grandchildren; Cassandra Stewart, Katrina (Brayton) Bailie, Hayley (Jeremiah Moon) Stewart, Ben Stewart, Mackenzie Sandusky, and a great- grandchild; Khalil Bailie.

Ralph was preceded in death by his loving wife; Shirely Dilling, and a sister; Shirley Moore.

A funeral service honoring the life of Ralph will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 2 pm with Pastors Matt Yeck and Bill Fields officiating, located at Shirey Funeral Home, 121 N Union St, Delphi. Friends may visit with the family from 12 noon until the time of the service. Burial will follow at IOOF Memorial Gardens in Pittsburg where Military Rites will be performed.

Shirey Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.davidsonshireyfh.com