Rick Ramey

Barney Patrick Ramey better known as Rick Ramey was born April 6, 1939 to Barney Lee and Laura Jane Ramey in Homewood, Alabama. He was born at his grandmother's home, with his twin brother Benjamin, who died one day after birth. Along with his younger sisters Jane and Lynn, He learned hard work from his parents. Beginning early working with his father at his full service gas station after school every day. Close to the same time He learned to love Jehovah with his Mother, attending meetings beginning around 1949. While attending Shades Valley High School he met Janis Lou Clinkscales. When a young sister that he was interested in showed more interest in his cousin, Janis swooped in to console him. In a short while they were married September 14, 1957. This began 41 years of service to Jehovah together, moving to where the need was great in small towns such as Cullman and Sumiton, Alabama. Along the way they made disciples, most notably Lee 1958, Leslie 1962, and Benjamin 1971. From an early age Rick wanted to help in the congregation. At the age of 12, with the enticement to drive the family car, he accompanied his mother to the book study where he was then enlisted as the regular reader. Soon he would take assignments such as working at the literature counter and volunteer for any talk assignment. He credited older brothers taking interest in him which helped his spiritual growth. He was given his first public talk assignment at the tender age of 19. He thought it was ironic that his first talk was entitled ``Guard your Children from Delinquency“ while only being a father for a few months himself. Some blessings he enjoyed included attending the New World Society Assembly held at Yankee Stadium July 20th 1953, and staying at Tent City . On returning he was baptized the following month, August 16th 1953. He enjoyed going to Bethel to attend Elder’s School in April of 1968. He worked at assemblies and conventions preparing hot meals and working in other departments also. Other privileges of service included giving circuit and district convention parts, as well as substituting in the circuit work on a few occasions. Arriving in the Clermont/Groveland area in 1977 to help the only one English congregation, he became well known in the local community through his ministry and his business which brought him in contact with many people. He would often seize the opportunity to witness to customers and those he employed. He was not shy to share his religious convictions with those in the Groveland area and they in turn would seek him out for scriptural answers. He loved the congregation and was always generously willing to offer assistance to those in need. He loved to teach. In countless bible studies, talks and discussions, he shared his Love for the Truth found in the Bible. Many also sought him out for sound practical advice based on years of experience and for application of Christian principles. With an appreciation for spiritual history, he looked forward to the coming New World, relaying to previous generations what life was like in the 20th Century serving Jehovah. In his later years, After being slowed by old age and infirmity, he did what he could to be positive and encouraging to all the congregation. He was a fixture, health permitting, arriving early, greeting all, and welcoming new ones. While difficult to get around, he invited others to accompany him on his return visits. He loved to joke around, “to turn a phrase” as he said, even dress up as a clown to put a smile on your face. Rick finished the race on February 16th 2021. He is survived by his sister Lynn Sequino of Lake Wales, Florida. His sons Lee and Linda Ramey of Dora, Al. Leslie and Vallei Ramey of Clermont, Fl. and Benjamin and Sherrell Ramey of Crestview, Fl. He was proud of his family, and loved his sons, daughters In-laws, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He left a legacy of 68 years of service to Jehovah, instilling that love in his sons. His hope was his family would all be there with him to welcome back Janis in the resurrection.