Howard Leroy Ramey

Howard Leroy Ramey, 98, passed away Friday, June 16, 2017 at Pristine Senior Living. He was born May 29, 1919 to Lavasco and Callie (Shaffer) Ramey.

A life-long resident of Portsmouth, Howard lived at his house on Spring Street from age 3 until he passed.  He loved the house, the neighborhood and the memories they held for him.

He was a 1938 graduate of Portsmouth High School and was a catcher on the Trojan baseball team. He attended The Ohio State University and was a graduate of Portsmouth Interstate Business College.

Howard played semi-pro baseball as a catcher with Ramey Feeds, a team sponsored by his father.  Branch Rickey invited him to try out for the Portsmouth Redbirds.

A fiercely proud veteran of World War II, Howard was in the Army Air Force.  He was a bombardier in the 98^th Bomb Group and the 415^th Bomb Squadron.  Based in Lecce, Italy, he flew 48 missions in a B-24 and bombed German plants, bridges, oil fields and railroads.  His plane was hit with flack on numerous occasions and, while others in his planes were injured or killed, he made it through the war without a scratch because, in his words,  “A guardian angel was sitting on my shoulder. “ In recognition for his service, he received the Air Medal, two Oak Leaf Clusters, five Bronze Service Stars, a Good Conduct Medal, two Presidential Citations and other commendations.  Howard was indeed a true American war hero.

He is featured in the books, Men of Valor (by Sam Piatt) and  Admirable People (by Sam Kegley).

He was a hard and conscientious worker, sometimes holding two jobs at once.  He retired from the “A Plant” in Piketon.

Howard always had a positive attitude and a smile on his face for his many, many friends.  He was a very sweet and social man who loved people.

He was preceded in death January 21, 1997 by his wife, Wylodine (Richards) Ramey, whom he married June 25, 1946 in Catlettsburg, KY; and his brother, Dennis Ramey.

Surviving are his son, Denny L. Ramey of Upper Arlington, OH; and his grandchildren, Elizabeth M. Ramey of Columbus, OH and Brian M. Ramey (and wife, Dallas) of Upper Arlington, OH.  Of special mention are Howard’s sister-in-law, Patrice Richards of South Shore, KY; his nieces and nephew who considered him their grandfather, Michael (Jennifer) Ramey, DeAnn Richards and Amy (Dave) Castle and her son, Adam Weaver; and Howard’s loyal friend, Betty Morgan, all of whom were wonderful in caring for him and for bringing him great joy and comfort.  Also deserving recognition are the caregivers of Pristine Senior Living of Portsmouth and SOMC Hospice.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home in Portsmouth with Rev. Acy Gibson officiating and interment in Memorial Burial Park. The American Legion James Dickey Post #23 Honor Guard will conduct military graveside rites.  The flag of the U.S. Army will fly at the funeral home in honor of Mr. Ramey’s service to our country.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday one hour prior to services.

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