As the eldest of the Merrye children, sweet, misunderstood Ralph is also the furthest along in his mental & physical deterioration. No longer able to speak coherently, Ralph (or "Ralphie," as some affectionately call him) has devolved into a sort of dog-like humanoid, communicating in grunts & yelps and easily giving in to his more base desires... especially when an attractive lady—such as his own Aunt Emily—happens to be in the vicinity. Oh, Ralph!