Ralph Leroy Elkins, Jr.

Ralph LeRoy Elkins Jr. was born in Charleston, SC to the late Ralph Elkins, Sr. and Getrude Baggott. After receiving undergraduate and Masters degrees from Auburn University, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Biopsychology from the University of Georgia in 1970 and earned membership in Phi Beta Kappa organization.

Ralph’s career as a research psychologist is defined through his contributions to the field and personal relationships developed at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center (Augusta, GA) as a Research Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry, Medical College of Georgia as a Member of the Faculty, the Schick Shadel Hospital of Florida as the Director of Research and Hypnotherapy, and the Schick Shadel Hospital (Seattle, WA) as the Research Director.

Throughout his impressive and expansive career, Ralph developed and studied conditioned taste aversion methodology to enhance anti-cravings for alcohol and other substance use disorders (e.g., Elkins, 1980). Through these efforts, he developed and maintained friendships that lasted decades. He was known and loved for his sharp wit, sense of humor, and colorful stories told around the table with friends.

Ralph was predeceased by his wife, Linda Shay Elkins. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Touze, his granddaughter Alexiane Touze, and his stepchildren, Kelley McRorie (Chad McRorie) and Scott Shay (Robin Shay).

At his request, there will be no funeral service.