Ralph Christopher Naylor

Ralph Christopher “Chris” Naylor, father, accomplished attorney, and cherished friend, passed away on December 5, 2024, in Houston, TX, surrounded by his family. Chris was born to Ralph and Joyce Naylor on December 24, 1954, in Groton, CT where his father was stationed at Naval Submarine Base New London. He grew up in Hoffman Estates, IL alongside his two brothers, Stan and Rick, forging bonds that remained strong throughout his life. His sharp intellect, easygoing personality, and dry sense of humor earned him a large circle of friends. After graduating with honors from James B. Conant High School, Chris enrolled at Valparaiso University. He was a beloved member of a group of about 20 students who spent five months living and studying together in Cambridge, England – and traveling together throughout Europe – as part of the university’s overseas study program in 1975. The group developed such a strong bond that, for decades after, members returned regularly to Valparaiso University for reunions. Chris was a favorite in the group for his disarming wit and candor, his warmth, and his enthusiasm for life. For his junior year, Chris transferred to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where his English major was a natural fit for his appreciation of classic literature and his gift for creative writing. He documented virtually every day of his college career in a massive diary filled with keen observations, poems, and humorous anecdotes. A perennial straight-A student, Chris still found time to attend plenty of live sporting events and remained a Fighting Illini fan for life. After receiving his Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law, Chris relocated to Houston, TX as a member of the State Bar for what would become a 30-year career as an effective and highly respected bankruptcy attorney. He earned a reputation for honesty, fairness, and a desire to always make a positive impact on society. He retired in 2019 as a partner from Devlin, Naylor & Turbyfill, PPLC. Outside of his busy work life, he was known as a doting father, friendly neighbor, and man of faith. He especially enjoyed the writings of the Apostle Paul and the verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Chris enjoyed live music and possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of rock ‘n roll history. His greatest joy, however, was his family. Chris Naylor is survived by his daughter, Lauren Yost of Hillsdale, MI; his grandchildren, William (8), Ralph (7), Charlotte (5), and Lewis (3); his mother Joyce Naylor of Houston; his brothers Stan Naylor of Johns Creek, GA and Rick Naylor of Houston; along with numerous extended family members and friends. His presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew him. A visitation will be held Thursday, December 19 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church,12955 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 21 at 11:00 am at Katy Magnolia Cemetery, 6801 Franz Rd, Katy, TX. Family and friends are invited to gather in honor of the remarkable man he was.

Ralph Christopher Naylor

December 24, 1954 - December 5, 2024