John Wesley Ramsey

The Man. The Myth. The Legend.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Ramsey on a peaceful Friday afternoon. Though he may have left us physically, his spirit, laughter, and legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.

John was many things in his remarkable life—a son, a brother, a friend, an uncle, a husband, and proudly, a dad and “Gampa.” He lived life with joy, curiosity, and compassion, always ready with a great story and a helping hand.

He had a deep love for so many of life’s simple pleasures—animals, history, antiques, motorcycles, his Jeep, the parkway, hamburgers, Dr Pepper, the beach, and most importantly, his family. He had a gift for creating, building, and fixing—always with precision, care, and a bit of perfectionism that those who knew him best will always remember with a smile.

John was the person you called for advice—whether it was about cars, home repairs, or how to navigate life’s challenges. His knowledge, generosity, sense of humor, and kindness made him an incredible man, one-of-a-kind.

He was preceded in death by his parents Russell Garland Ramsey and Margaret Schrader Ramsey.

He is survived by his wife, Kathie Ramsey; children, Jennifer Ingram (Brian), Jeremy Ramsey (Sara), and Holly Kennedy (Cory Krantz); grandchildren, Maddie, Bella, Issac, Bronson, and Hope; siblings, Lorretta Fortune (Toni), RG Ramsey (Michelle), Todd Ramsey (Beth); and numerous nieces and nephews who he enjoyed spending time with.

He lived a life full of love, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends. For the last 28 years, he shared many adventures with the love of his life, Kathie—his partner, his best friend, and, his angel. Her strength and love over the past year made her his hero, just as he had always been hers since that day on the beach so many years ago.

John was truly unforgettable. His legacy lives on through the memories he gave us, the lessons he taught us, and the love he so freely gave. All who met him, were lucky to know him. He will be missed beyond words.

"Life's journey is not to arrive safely at the grave in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, 

totally worn out, shouting, ‘Holy cow, what a ride!’"

That was John—full of energy, full of life, and never holding back.

A visitation will be held at Tharp Funeral Home on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 1:00-3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions to the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.