Ralph Simpson Beckham 86 formerly of Prosperity died May 27 2004 at Springfield Place. Mr. Beckham was born on January 11 1918 in Newberry a son of the late Calvin and Blanche Boozer Whitmire. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II. Mr. Beckham graduated Suma Cum Laude and first in his class from the University of South Carolina with a B. A. Degree in French and Spanish. In 1952 he received a Bachelor's Degree of Foreign Trade from American Institute of Foreign Trade Phoenix AZ. He earned a M. A. Degree from the American University in Washington DC on teaching English as a foreign language. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Delta Kappa Honorary Societies. Mr. Beckham was a teacher of English as a foreign language for many years overseas and in Washington DC. He was a loyal and dedicated member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church where he sang in the choir. Mr. Beckham is survived by numerous nieces nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a brother Harold BeckhamFuneral services for Ralph Simpson Beckham will be conducted at 3:00 Sunday at St Luke's Episcopal Church by the Rev. David Stewart. Burial will be in Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery in Winnsboro.Visitation will be from 2:00 to 2:45 P.M. Sunday at the church prior to the funeral services.Memorials may be to the St. Luke's Episcopal Church 1605 Main St. Newberry SC 29108 or to the charity of one choice's. Ralph will be remembered for his intellect humor and generous spirit. He will be missed by his many friends and family.Messages to the family may be sent via email at notes@whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home 1704 College Street Newberry is assisting the family.