Lee Hanmer Neal Ramsey, 88, of Keysville, Virginia, departed this life peacefully at home on November 3, 2020. Survived by her loving husband of 65 years, James D. Ramsey, Jr., Skee (as she was known to all) was a devoted wife, daughter and mother. She was preceded in death by an infant son and her son Thomas Hanmer Ramsey. In addition to her husband, Skee is survived by her children James Daniel Ramsey, III, and Katherine Electa Ramsey, and her grandchildren, Zachary Thomas Ramsey, Jessica Lee Ramsey and Matthew Hagop Pierre Roose.
Skee was born in Keysville on November 9, 1931, and remained a life-long resident, leaving home only to obtain her music degree from Greensboro College in 1954. Upon returning to Keysville and marrying, she worked at Neal’s Furniture, was an active member of the Keysville Women’s Club and volunteered with the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society. However, most in the area will perhaps remember Skee as a diligent and dedicated music teacher in the Charlotte County public schools for 18 years and as a member of the Keysville United Methodist Church. As church music director, she played the organ and piano and directed the choir every week for 60 years.
Skee loved spending time with her family, playing piano and taking care of all those around her. She was an accomplished cook, and appreciated nature. Most of all, she was a faithful servant of the Lord. She will be greatly missed, but remembered by many.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 7, 2020, at Ash Camp Memorial Cemetery in Keysville. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Alzheimer’s Association and Special Olympics Virginia. The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, Virginia, is serving the family.
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Martha Snyder
Skee was such an elegant lady. My favorite memory is of her hosting the bridesmaid luncheon for Carolyn Ramsey back in the 60’s. Everything was so classy. The table settings were perfect and the food was dainty and delicious. Every time my mother, Ruby Snyder, made Skee’s yellow squash recipe she brought up that perfect occasion.
Winifred Dunn
Dear family:
It was a privilege to know and love Mrs. Ramsey I have many fond memories of her while she was my band teacher in seventh grade and then band director for my two years at Central Jr. High. She was a wonderful example for her students, and engrained a love of music for so many.. She carried herself as a lady, but could also be stern when necessary only later laughing about the incident. Often times I felt sorry for Danny because he took the brunt when we all misbehaved (hah) because she expected him to set the example. I know because after becoming a teacher I did the same with my son! She asked about me often as I did about her. Thank you Mrs. Ramsey for being the persona of a great mentor. To the family my sympathy and love.
Jennifer Hamlet Glossop
So sorry to hear of Mrs. Ramsey’s passing. She was a wonderful person and teacher. Prayers for the family.
Robbie Pryor
Jimmy and family, I was so very sorry to learn of Skee’s passing. May God bring you comfort and peace at this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. My love to all.
Robbie Pryor
Wakefield, Michigan
Jane Osborne Johnson
When I was a child I spent most of each summer in Keysville with my Grandmother Georgie Osborne and her sister Mag (that my Dad and I called Gram. They were Skee’s Great Aunts and Fred Hanmer’s youngest and oldest siblings. When Danny was a baby, they were living in an apartment at the Charlotte Hotel, and I would go to play with Danny and “help” Skee. She also tried to improve my skills on the clarinet not an easy task. While writing this I thought about my twin “big girl” bed that several years ago went to one of my granddaughters for her first apartment. It still had the Neale Furniture Tag attached to side rail If not for Covid 19 we would have been at the service, as she was at those of my family.
To Skee: The Navy Farewell-Fair Winds and Following Seas
To All That Loved her-Your Memories Will Bring You Tears, May They Also Bring You Joy
Larry Newcomb
Sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. Ramsey. She too was my band teacher at Central Middle School. Her love of music and teaching helped so many students including myself. I still have home videos of us at band concerts from the mid 1980’s. She was a wonderful lady and will truly be missed.
David Carson
Our prayers and thoughts are with each of the family. We are so sorry for your loss. She was a special lady. Sincerely David and Yvonne Carson