Bells, Texas - Bessie Alice "Ryon" Ramsey stayed true to her Irish background and passed on St. Patrick's Day. Bessie was born on March 29, 1920 on the family farm in the community of Canaan. Bessie was the 4th of 5 siblings. She lost her mother at the age of 3 and her father at the age of 16. She graduated from Bells high School in 1937 and eloped with Morris G. "Runt" Ramsey after a basketball game on February 24, 1938. They were married for 52 years until his death in 1989. Together they had 3 children, Morrisann (Otis) Bass, Elaine (Johnny) Sinor and the long awaited "golden boy" Michael (Maudianne) Ramsey.
Bessie was a well-known professional seamstress. She was most proud of the many years she worked for Knights Furniture where she designed custom draperies for beautiful homes. Her creative talents also extended into the clothes she designed for many people through the years.
In retirement, Bessie became involved in several community projects. She was a member of the Eastern Star for many years. She served as a "Pink Lady" at WNJ Hospital. She was recognized as RSVP Volunteer of the Year. She was instrumental for working on the 4-A and 4-B committee, volunteer grandparent at Bells Elementary and played a major role in the development of the Bells SNAP Program. She also was on the Historic Committee at the Bells First United Methodist Church where she was a member.
Bessie lived a long active life and her passion for family, love of animals and gardening will always be remembered.
Preceding Bessie in death are her parents; husband; 4 siblings; daughter-in-law, Bevin (Mike) Ramsey; and grandchildren, Josh and Angie Ramsey.
Surviving Bessie are 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Alzheimer's may have taken away her memory, but the precious memories of her will last forever. Thanks for all the care the last seven years by the staff of the Mullican Care Center.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at the Mullican-Little Funeral Chapel in Bells/Savoy, Texas. Rev. Bill Neal, Jr. officiated. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery.