Donald Ray Ramsey, 88 of Chalk Bluff, passed away suddenly on Monday, April 08, 2024 surrounded by his family and in the arms of his wife of 66 years.
Memorial Service: 2:00 PM on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Parkview Baptist Church, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr. Waco, TX. Visitation will follow after service.
Donald was born on March 10, 1936 in Mart, Texas and was raised in Axtell, Texas by his mother Ruby Mae (Valentine) Ramsey and father Jesse E. Ramsey. Donald was working as a butcher at Tusa’s Market when he met the love of his life, Ruby “Darlene” Lee. Donald met Darlene in 1957 while at Tusa’s Market when the “poodle skirt” she was wearing caught on fire and he put the fire out. He always said he saved her life that day. Donald asked Darlene to go a New Year’s Eve party, which Darlene responded that she “wouldn’t go to a dog fight with him”. Eventually, on March 18, 1958 Donald and Darlene were married at the preacher’s house on 3rd Street. Through many ups and downs, trials and tribulations, thick and thin, in sickness and in health, days of bologna and ribeyes, Donald and Darlene remained by each other’s side for over 66 years. This marriage union brought three children Tammy Ramsey, Cindy Ramsey, and Donnie Ramsey. Donald worked as a butcher, a meat salesman, a deputy sheriff with McLennan County Sheriff’s Department, a welder for Trane Manufacturing, and he and Darlene retired and opened Yesterday’s Memories Deli in downtown Waco. He was very active, lifelong member, of Parkview Baptist Church.
Donald had a heart of gold. He was always a giver, rather than a taker. He was a hard worker, compassionate, had a great sense of humor, and loved baking. He made the best pound cakes and homemade sausage.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Ruby Ramsey; brother, Billy Ramsey, infant brother Wilbur Ramsey; daughter, Tammy Ramsey Bollinger; son in laws Phillip Bollinger, and Lary Oliver.
Donald is survived by his wife Darlene Ramsey; daughter, Cindy Ramsey Oliver; son, Donnie Ramsey and wife Tracy; grand-children, Desiree Bollinger, Cameron Bollinger and fiancé Candice, Darrin Ramsey and wife Maggie, and Lauren Ramsey; great-grandchildren Jayda, Kielar, Kayty, Maddie, Easton, Harleigh, and Ella; as well as many extended family and friends.
The family wishes to extend thanks to Elm Mott Volunteer Fire Dept, AMR, and Providence Emergency for their rapid response to Donald’s care.
The family would also like to thank Pastor Joey Crenshaw and Brother Steve Adams.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Parkview Baptist Church.
Place of Service: ,
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Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
I’m so sorry for this family’s loss. Thinking of all of you.
So very sorry for your loss. God Bless You All