James Ralsten

Mr. James Wesley Ralsten, age 77, of Covington, died Friday, February 13, 2026, at LewisGale Hospital-Alleghany, Low Moor. He was the husband of the late JoAnn Boggs Lowe Ralsten who preceded him in death in 2023. Mr. Ralsten was born February 1, 1949 in Virginia, the son of the late Malcolm McNeer Ralsten and Elizabeth Miller Ralsten. He was a lifetime resident of this community. James was employed as a mechanic by United Parcel Service, retiring after thirty years of service. He was also a former employee of Loving Funeral Home. In his spare time, James enjoyed working with crafts and making things with his hands. Mr. Ralsten is survived by a daughter, Jennifer V. Ralsten of Richmond; three sons, John W. Ralsten of Dayton, OH, Clayton T. Lowe of Covington and Jeffery M. Lowe and wife, Brenda of Covington; four grandchildren, Caleb Lowe, Kara A. McCallister and husband, Nathan, Chase Bratton of Mooresville, NC and Nicholas Recker of Newberg, OR; a brother, William R. (Billy) Ralsten and wife, Kathy of Chester; a sister-in-law, Gladys Ralsten of Roanoke; and a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Ralsten was preceded in death by two brothers, Malcolm M. Ralsten and Marshall M. Ralsten and a sister, Margaret Ellen Bontz. A private graveside service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Rev. Bill Gilliland officiating. Those wishing to see the family should assemble at Loving Funeral Home at 1:00 P.M. and at other times at the residence, 1425 Echols Rd, Covington. The family suggests that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426. Loving Funeral Home is honored to conduct the arrangements for our beloved friend and former co-worker, James Ralsten; to view his memorial tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneral home1913.com.