Ralph Lee DeShong, Jr., president of Houston-based supplier Landes, Inc. (PPAI 221733), passed away on March 11. He was 84.

DeShong started The Shoe Hut in Houston in 1970 with a friend. When the partners split in 1983, he became the sole owner of the corporate charter, Landes, Inc., and began making purses for retail. In 1986, DeShong steered the company into promotional products, manufacturing tote bags and duffels with screen printed logos.

He is survived by his children Diane Lee DeShong Pendleton and husband Larry; Paige Lynn DeShong; Ralph Lee DeShong III and wife Carol; and by his grandchildren Matthew Brock DeShong, Clair Cunningham DeShong, Forrest Jorns DeShong and August Jorns Bell.

A celebration of life is planned at 4 pm on March 19 at Christ the King Presbyterian Church, 1201 Silber Rd., Houston, Texas, with a reception immediately following.