Ralph McDowell Hitchens passed away Monday, October 27, 2025, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Bethesda, MD. 

 

He was born in Chicago on October 31, 1945. He was known for his gentle spirit, his compassion for others, and his unwavering commitment to serving his community. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted family man, and a loyal friend.

He was a dedicated member of Poolesville Memorial United Methodist Church, where he served in many roles including Lay Leader, Adult Sunday School participant, Men’s Group member, Bible Study member, and on the Staff Parish Relations Committee. Ralph’s generosity extended well beyond the church. He was actively involved with WUMCO (Western Upper Montgomery County Help), serving as a board member and as a vital part of the organization’s transportation program—driving many hundreds of miles every year to help those in need. He also volunteered with the Frederick Rescue Mission, Helping Hands, Hands of Love, and was an organ donor, always eager to lend his time  to serve others. Outside of his volunteer work, Ralph found joy in many community activities.

 

He was a member of the Upper Montgomery County Masters Swim Team, where he swam in Lane 2 and entertained teammates with his humorous monthly newsletters. He treasured the friendships he made with the team.  His love of swimming included spending lots of time at the local pool with his daughters.

 

Ralph was also an avid reader and active member of his local Book Club, as well as a supporter of the Maggie Nightingale Library, where he served on the Poolesville Library Advisory Committee.

 

Ralph attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL earning a BS in Political Science, and later, completed an MS in Military Intelligence from Defense Intelligence College. He served in the US Air Force for twenty years during which he did a tour of duty in Vietnam, then continued as a pilot at Andrews Air Force Base, followed by Ramstein Air Base in Germany, eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  After leaving the Air Force Ralph took a position at the US Department of Energy where he specialized in Intelligence with regard to the country’s energy.  Ralph was respected by his colleagues at the Defense Intelligence College, where he was known for his diligence, insight, and the deep conversations he shared with those around him. After he retired from the government, he worked for Computer Sciences Corporation.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janet, and his children, Emily and Elizabeth, his sister, Susan, and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his two brothers, Joseph and Philip. Ralph lived his life with deep meaning and purpose, always finding joy in being there for everyone.