Former Somerville Mayor S. Lester Ralph Dies At 88

SOMERVILLE, MA — Former Somerville mayor S. Lester Ralph passed away Tuesday, Aug. 20. He was 88 years old. Ralph, who served four terms from 1970-1978, was a "much needed reformer in an age of rampant corruption," according to his obituary in the Boston Globe.

Ralph is credited with revitalizing the city through infrastructure and public parks projects and helped bring the Red Line to Somerville, boosting the Davis Square area. His work paid off in 1972 when Somerville was awarded the All America City Award.

A minister prior to running for mayor, Ralph was the rector of Christ Church in Somerville and served as Middlesex County Commissioner. He ran a private law practice after retiring from politics, according to his obituary.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 27 at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 95 Woburn St., Reading, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made by check to the Wonalancet Union Chapel, Amy Semmes, Treasurer, 120 Auburn St., Medford, MA 02155.

Read more from the Boston Globe.