Barbara "Barby" Elwell Ramsey

Barbara E. “Barby” Ramsey
May 11, 1934 – January 19, 2026

Barbara E. “Barby” Ramsey (91) of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, while in the excellent care of Lakeside of Amelia and Community Hospice. She will be remembered for her quick wit, warm heart, and the lively presence that made people feel instantly at home.

Barby was the beloved wife of CMSGT John L. Ramsey, USAF (Ret.), and his devoted partner for 71 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in love, service, faith, and family. She was a fiercely loving mother to her favorite child, Dr. Thomas Ramsey, who was the center of her world. Her support for her causes was unwavering, her pride in her country was boundless, and her devotion to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was constant.

A proud veteran and longtime supporter of the Air Force community, Barby valued service, loyalty, and friendship. She actively participated in her local Fernandina Beach, Florida, community for 29 years, and enjoyed staying connected through St. Peter’s Church, the Fernandina Beach Newcomers, the Jacksonville Snow Village, and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She had a talent for turning simple moments into stories, and her humor and energy brought cheer to every conversation.

Having lived in Europe for 16 years with John on Air Force assignments, Barby was also an avid traveler and a curious spirit who believed in experiencing life to the fullest. She demonstrated faith not just through words but through lived experiences, linking places and history to belief in a way that made it tangible for those around her.

Though her heart eventually grew tired, her spirit remained steadfast. Barby loved deeply, gave generously, and embraced life fully. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by everyone lucky enough to know her.

Services will be held at St. Peter’s Church, 801 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, on January 29, 2026, at 11 am EST, followed by a lunch in Burns Hall. Burial will be at a later date at the Jacksonville Veterans Cemetery.

It is requested that, if you attend the funeral at St. Peter's on the 29th, ladies are asked wear their most meaningful and boldest hats, as mother treasured hundreds of hats she wore as a signature fashion statement at every event, often blocking the view of those behind her. If you do not have a hat, a small selection will be available at the church entrance.

Additionally, instead of flowers, please consider making an in-kind donation to The Golden Retriever https://greatrescue.org/donate/ since she was passionate about her family dogs, including Amron (1992), Newman (2011), Henry the Happy Black Dog, and Riley the Wonder Dog, all rescues.

We wish to thank Lakeside Assisted Living, Community Hospice, St. Peter's Church, and Green Pine Funeral Home for their excellent care of my mother.