Obituary of Mary Jean Ramsey

Mary Jean Ramsey, 92, passed away in Ocala, FL on September 18, 2023.  Born in Greensboro, AL, Mary Jean lived most of her younger years in Gadsden, AL.  She moved to Lakeland, FL and graduated from Lakeland High School where her father was the football coach and athletic director. She attended the University of Alabama and then returned to Lakeland working various jobs before beginning a long, wonderful career with Publix Super Markets in 1956.  Mary Jean transferred to Miami when the Publix Miami Division opened in 1963. She retired in 1997.

Mary Jean loved the Lord, animals and football.  She was a gifted organist and loved to play for the Lord. She was filled with compassion, was sharp witted and a generous friend.  Everyone who knew Mary Jean loved her.

She is preceded in death by her father, L.L “Nurmi” Nelson, her mother, Olivia McFatter Nelson, husband William L. “Bill” Lewis and many beloved 4-footed friends, the last being Duke, Duchess, Skeeter and Sparkle.

Mary Jean is survived by her loving husband, Gerald T. “Jerry” Ramsey, and several cousins in Florida and Alabama. Mary Jean and Jerry spent over forty wonderful, loving years together.

She is a member of the First Baptist Church of Ocala.

Donations in Mary Jean’s honor can be made to any no kill shelter, the Nurmi Nelson Scholarship Fund through Polk Education Foundation or the Florida Baptist Children’s Home.