for Northside High School died on Wednesday, November 16, 2011. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Kay Grosart Isbell, of Roanoke, Va.; three daughters, Jolynne Williamson (Joe), of Roanoke, Va., Dana Riley (Tim), of Saluda, S.C., and Jennie Isbell (Newell), of Barre, Mass.; one son, Mike Isbell (Angela), of Clifton Forge, Va.; seven grandchildren, D. Hunter Carter, Dustin Williamson, D. Shane Carter, Tyese Riley, Makenzie Williamson, Adam and Alex Perdue, and Roman C. Isbell; and two great- grandchildren, Mary Grace Martin and Kylee I. Carter. He was predeceased by his son, David Brien Isbell; and his brothers, W. Wallace Isbell and Frank L. Isbell. 
After graduating a football legend from Jefferson High School, he continued his education and football career at Concord College. He interrupted his college attendance to serve in the United States Army during the Korean War in the 45th Infantry Division, 245th Tank Headquarters and Service Company, Company A. He returned from Korea and graduated from Concord in 1955. Later that year, he began his long and rewarding career with Roanoke County Schools. 
Second only to his family was his love and dedication to the kids he taught and coached. In 1960, when Northside High School opened, he joined the faculty as a teacher and coach. Generations have benefited and will continue to benefit from his contributions, leadership and dedication. He retired from Northside in 1988.
Special thanks are extended to Dr. Quazir Raza and the entire staff of Carrington Nursing Home for all of their kindness and support. The family will be accepting friends for visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday evening, November 18, 2011, at Oakey's North Chapel. There will be a Graveside Service at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 19, 2011, at Sherwood Burial Park in Salem, Va.
It is requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of "Coach" Ralph Isbell be made to Northside High School Football, 6758 Northside High School Road, Roanoke, VA 24019 Arrangements by Oakey's North Chapel.