Ralph Arlen Spires, age 86, of Gallipolis, passed away Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at his home.  He was born December 29, 1937 in Vinton County, Ohio, son of the late Rev. Ralph H. Spires and Velda Grace Kincaid Spires.  Arlen was valedictorian of the 1956 graduating class at Wilton High School in Wilkesville.  He retired from Sears & Roebuck Co. where he was employed for 42 years.  Arlen stayed very active and enjoyed being outdoors taking daily walks with his wife, and, over the years, participating in both 5K and 10K races.  He was very talented in repairing anything you put in front of him, and he also spent lots of time working crossword puzzles.  Arlen, along with his wife, Laverne, were members of the Nazarene Church for 65 years, and most recently, they attended Elizabeth Chapel in Gallipolis.  Arlen is survived by his wife of 67 years, Laverne Phillips Spires; son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Lisa Spires of Gallipolis; grandchildren, Holly Clifford (Charles), Jeremy Partlow (Bicetta), David Spires, Kyle Kurtz, and Samantha Jeffrey; great-grandchildren, Jaden, Bryson, Cally, Charles, Cameron, Carlee, and Myra; brothers, Roger Spires of Worthington, and Terry Spires of Yorktown, Indiana; and nephew, Ryan Spires.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Spires.  Calling hours will be Tuesday, February 27th, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Funeral service will follow the calling hours at 3 p.m. with Pastor Randy Carnes officiating.  Burial will be in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.