Jack Earl Ramsey, Jr. DDS was born on June 17, 1933, in Guyton, GA, and departed this earth on January 1, 2024. As a youth, bold enough to embellish his age, he soared as a crop duster at 15. His journey led him to the Citadel Military College in South Carolina, where he graduated in 1954 and was a proud member of The Summerall Guards.
The skies called again, this time as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, mastering the F-86 Saber during the dwindling days of the Korean conflict. His tales of those years, especially those from his time in Arizona, were as vivid as the flights themselves. He once confessed that flying was such a joy he felt guilty taking pay for it.
Continuing his service, he joined the Air National Guard, flying with the 158th Air Squadron of the Georgia Air National Guard. He ascended to the rank of Captain, his Senior Pilot wings a testament to his skill and dedication. Serving his country was, to him, life’s greatest fulfillment.
Jack attended Emory University School of Dentistry from 1961 to 1965. His practice in Savannah, lasting until 1998 and culminating at Garden City Dental Center, was marked by a genuine affection for his patients, his jokes lightening the room, his touch known for its gentleness. He retired in November 2023, at the age of 90.
His passion extended to the baseball diamond, where he played shortstop, even gracing the minor leagues in the Cardinals farm system in Murfreesboro, TN. His heart, however, was in old-timers baseball, where his team triumphed in the Senior League World Series.
A devout Christian, he trusted in Jesus Christ. “Little Jack,” as he was known growing up in Guyton, embodied discipline and perfectionism in every endeavor. A patriot, forever a military man, he also found solace in woodworking, crafting fine furniture and boats with the same precision he applied to every aspect of his life.
His talents were many: a beautiful pianist, a gardener nurturing vegetables and orchards, and a beekeeper, his hives and honey evidence of his connection with nature. His skill as a marksman earned him accolades in numerous shooting competitions.
Highlands, NC, held a special place in his heart, a sanctuary since childhood, where he was the most relaxed reading cowboy books in the cool mountain air. For 64 years, he cherished hosting the Cubbedge family reunion in the barn on his family farm, a tradition as enduring as his memory.
A life well-lived, marked by service, skill, and a deep love for his country and kin. A true renaissance man in every sense, leaving behind a legacy as rich and varied as the life he led.
Jack was proceeded in death by his parents, Jack & Mary Lillian Ramsey; step-daughter, Bonnie S. Hall; and brother, Speir Newton Ramsey.
Survivors include his wife, Susan Dolan Ramsey; son, Jack Earl “Chip” Ramsey, III (Patricia Vogel Ramsey); grandchildren, Jack W. Ramsey and Ava L. Ramsey; step-son, Charles B. Spillane, Jr. (Margaret); step-daughter, Janet E. Spillane (Jon Erickson); step-grandchildren, Charles B. Spillane, III and Jennifer S. Lujan (Carlos); and great-grandchildren, Alexis, Lane, Liam, Carolina, and Bach.
Funeral: 1 pm Friday, January 5, 2024 in the funeral home chapel with a gathering in the barn afterwards.
Private Family Burial: Guyton Cemetery
Remembrances: Les Feldick Ministries, 30706 W. Lona Valley Road, Kinta, Oklahoma 74552.
Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel (912) 754-6421