Mary Rachel Ramsey

Mary Rachel Ramsey, age 93, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at her home in Charleston, KY. Born in Clay, KY on March 14, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Felix Ramsey and Stella Glendola Jones Ramsey.

Mary devoted more than 50 years of her life to education in Hopkins County, beginning her career in White Plains and concluding her full-time teaching career in1991 at the Charleston School. Even after her retirement, her passion for teaching endured as she served as a substitute teacher for an additional 10 years. Mary is fondly remembered for her commitment to experiential learning, taking her students on enriching field trips to destinations such as Mammoth Cave, Dover, TN, The Kentucky State Capital, and My Old Kentucky Home. Perhaps most memorable was her special trip with the Beta Club to Washington, D.C. She was also a staunch supporter of her beloved Bearcats, attending every home ballgame to cheer them on.

Mary graduated from Charleston High School in 1949, where she was actively involved in numerous extracurricular clubs, activities, and field trips. She furthered her education at Western Kentucky Teacher's College, earning her Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1957, followed by her Master's Degree in 1965.

Her illustrious career in education was complemented by her many passions outside the classroom. Mary enjoyed crocheting, needlepoint, and embroidery, and she cherished traveling with friends and family. Notably, she took a memorable trip to Hawaii that remained dear to her heart. Her spirited personality and zest for life made her always ready for an adventure, both educational and fun.

Among her proudest accomplishments, Mary played a crucial role in establishing the Charleston Alumni Banquets, ensuring their continuation for many years. She was honored to be recognized as a Kentucky Colonel, a testament to her contributions and commitment to her community. 

Mary is survived by her sisters, Martha Mitchell of Charleston, KY, and LaMona Russell of Clay, KY; nieces Cordelia (Anthony) Adams, Jodi (Shane) Carroll, and Lou Ann Russell; nephews Jim (Rosetta) Ramsey and Lewis (Sherry) Ramsey; several great and great-great nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Stella Glendola Jones Ramsey; brother James Ramsey; two nieces, Kelly Ramsey and Ann Kay Mitchell; two nephews, Rodney Russell and Charles Ramsey; great-nephews Christopher and Michael Russell; and her brother-in-law, Pedro Russell.

Visitation for Mary Rachel Ramsey will be on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 11:00 A.M. until the 1:00 P.M. funeral hour at Beshear Funeral Home in Dawson Springs, KY with Rev. Patrick Yates officiating. Burial will follow in Rosedale Cemetery in Dawson Springs, KY.

Mary touched more lives than can be counted, leaving a legacy of lifelong learning and inspiration.