Joan Ellen Ramsey

Joan Ellen Keller Ramsey, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, 82, of Cleveland, TN passed away on November 12, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents Charles Eugene and Julia Pauline Keller, sister, Judy Marie Tallent and sister-in-law Sarah Ramsey Hancock. Joan is survived by her husband of 47 years Jon Michael Ramsey; son Michael Keller of Athens, TN; daughter Marla Prince (William) of Atlanta, GA and Julia Smith of Cohasset, MA. Grandchildren include Adam Prince of New York NY; Alexander Prince of Atlanta, GA; Alexis Smith and Brooke Smith both of Cohasset, MA; sister-in-law Mary Keasler of Chattanooga and brother-in-law Paul Ramsey of Cleveland, TN. Joan was born in Sweetwater, TN. She grew up in Athens, TN and resided for periods of her life in Petal, MS and Gainesville, FL. She worked as a nurse in the healthcare industry for many years. She began her career at Epperson Hospital and later worked at Foree Hospital, Bradley Memorial and several other healthcare facilities in both Mississippi and Florida. Joan was an avid cross-stitcher and mastered many beautiful, historical samplers that she proudly displayed in her home. She was a loyal blood donor and was known for her famous, southern cooking prepared with love which brought the family together and created many long-lasting, treasured memories.

Joan treasured her relationships with friends she had known since elementary school in Athens, TN. Those extended family members known as the “Sisters,” took many trips together including cruises and trips abroad. The group of sisters include Sheila Finnell, Athens, TN; Donna Russell, Buford, GA; Anna Lee Cagle, Decatur, TN; Phyllis Kelsey, Riceville, TN and Sue Koontz Cornett (deceased). Joan’s extended family members also included an honorary bonus daughter Tracey Devlin of Gainesville, FL.

Her unwavering faith in God was both strong and the anchor of her soul. Deeply cherished, Joan will be profoundly missed.

Graveside services will be held at West View Cemetery on Friday, November 15, 2024 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family ask for donations to be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society.