News Summary
Ralph Abercia, a prominent attorney and philanthropist from Houston, Texas, has passed away at the age of 94. Renowned for his legal prowess and extensive charitable work, Abercia leaves a lasting legacy. He served in World War II and dedicated nearly fifty years to practicing law. His philanthropic efforts included leadership roles in various organizations and contributions to many causes. Abercia is survived by his wife and children, with funeral services set to take place at St. George Orthodox Church in Houston.
Houston Attorney and Philanthropist Ralph Abercia Passes Away at 94
HOUSTON – Ralph Abercia, a renowned attorney and philanthropist from Houston, Texas, has passed away at the age of 94. His family confirmed the news, stating that Abercia’s first heavenly birthday will be celebrated on August 24, 2025, marking what would have been his 102nd birthday.
Abercia was born on August 24, 1923, to Lebanese immigrant parents, Libbie Faour Abercia and Tofie Roy Abercia. He grew up in Houston, where he attended Jeff Davis High School. After graduating, he enlisted in the Army Air Force and served with distinction during World War II from 1941 to 1945 as a member of the 303 Bombardier Group based in Molesworth, England. The group earned the Distinguished Unit Citation for their role in destroying an aircraft assembly plant in Oschersleben, Germany, a moment he regarded as one of his greatest prides.
Following his military service, Abercia utilized the GI Bill to pursue a law degree from South Texas Law School after completing undergraduate studies at the University of Houston. He dedicated nearly fifty years to practicing law in Houston, where he became known for his eloquent closing arguments and formidable presence in the courtroom, earning himself the nickname “the silver tongue.”
A Legacy of Philanthropy
Beyond his legal career, Ralph Abercia was deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. His dedication to giving back to his family, community, country, and faith was evident throughout his life. He served on the Board of Trustees for numerous organizations, including:
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
- Houston Board of Realtors
- American Task Force
- State Bar Associations
- Houston Trial and Plaintiff Association
- Arab American Businessmen’s Association
- Aid to Leukemia-Stricken Children
- Better Education for Rice University
- South Texas College Alumni
- St. George Church
- Antiochian Archdiocese Board
Abercia held an emeritus position on the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Board of Trustees, where he had served for over seventy years, including a four-year term as Chairman of the National Board of Trustees. His contributions earned him several honors, including the prestigious Gold Antonio Award from the Archdiocese.
His significant involvement with St. George Church in Houston spanned more than six decades, where he played a pivotal role in securing its land and served on its board. In addition, Abercia contributed to various fundraisers, aiding organizations such as St. George’s Hospital in Lebanon, the Kahlil Gibran Foundation in Washington, D.C., Rice University’s Chair for Arabic Studies, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, among others. For seventy years, he was also an active participant in the Southern Federation of Syrian Lebanese American Clubs, taking on many leadership roles.
Personal Life
Abercia is survived by his loving wife, Mary Adelene Shawheen Abercia, and their children: Sharon Abercia (married to John Evans), Sandra Abercia Bucaram (married to Arturo), Mary Kathryn Adel, and Ralph Abercia. His family also includes brothers Louis and George Abercia, nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Ralph Abercia are scheduled to take place from July 27 to July 28 at St. George Orthodox Church in Houston, Texas. In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established in his honor for the St. George Orthodox PAC Fund, with donations accepted via Zelle or for a Southern Federation Foundation Scholarship Fund dedicated in his memory.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Ralph Abercia Obituary
- ABC13: Couple Beats COVID-19
- Legacy: Rosalie Attra Abercia Obituary
- Chron: Elderly Houston Couple Celebrates
- Wikipedia: Ralph Abercia
- Google Search: Ralph Abercia
- Google Scholar: Ralph Abercia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ralph Abercia
- Google News: Ralph Abercia
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
