Ralph Barnes Davidson

Ralph Barnes Davidson, 81, of Bozeman, MT died unexpectedly on February 20, 2024. He was born in Glen Ridge, NJ, the son of John and Charlotte (Barnes) Davidson, III. He grew up in Montclair, NJ, graduating from Montclair High School in 1960. In 1965 Ralph earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Delaware with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. After college he joined the Peace Corps for Education and Teaching in West Cameroon, Africa, 1965-1967. He was very passionate and proud of his work in the Peace Corps. Returning home from Africa he attended graduate school at the University of Southern California, receiving a Master’s Degree in Education in 1969. It was at USC where he met his future wife, Nancy. They were married in 1968 in Los Angeles. 

Ralph spent 40 years in education, teaching high school and middle school science, math and chemistry in California, New Hampshire and West Cameroon, Africa. One of his hobbies was woodworking and that gave him the opportunity to be a Woodshop Teacher, sharing his skills with campers at two New Hampshire summer camps over a span of 20 years. Additionally, he used his creative skills to make beautiful wooden accessories and furniture for his home and family. 

From an early age Ralph enjoyed running. While living in California, he completed four marathons plus other running competitions. He loved the outdoors, exploring, hiking, camping, cross country skiing, all with his wife and family. In retirement Ralph found his love for genealogy. He devoted hours to researching and documenting family history. Preserving and sharing family stories was a passion. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy Davidson (Brooks) of Bozeman, MT; a daughter and her husband, Karen and Eric Cale of Bozeman, MT; a granddaughter Janna Elizabeth Cale; two sisters, Joan LaMonica of Harleysville, PA and Doris Anne Davidson Snyder of South Glastonbury, CT; three nieces, Jill Kuiken, Laurie LaMonica Derr and Lindsay Sandoval. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Donations may be made in memory of Ralph Davidson to the Peace Corps Partnership Program (PCPP) - https://www.peacecorps.gov/donate