Joyce C. (Harbaugh) Ramey

Joyce Cecelia Harbaugh Ramey, aged 82 of New Lexington, Ohio, passed away peacefully at The Pickering House, Lancaster, Ohio, on Thursday February 23, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Born July 12, 1940 in New Lexington, she was the daughter of the late Helen Boring Bailey and Thomas Harbaugh.  Joyce was raised by her loving grandparents, the late Leila Faye and Seddie E. Boring. A 1958 graduate of New Lexington High School, Joyce thrived in activities such as cheerleading, majorette, and class plays to name a few.  Joyce was most proud to have been inducted into the National Honor Society.  She loved spending summer days at the New Lexington Pool with her sister, brother, cousins and friends.  She spoke often of walking up the big hill from Broadway to Main Street with her grandpa, Seddie Boring, to attend movies and eat popcorn.  She treasured her time spent at The First United Methodist Church where her faith foundation was set through Sunday school, church choir, and confirmation. After graduation, Joyce returned to New Lexington High School as the secretary to Principal Linton Lewis.  She then worked briefly at Buckeye Union Insurance Company.  After her marriage to Harlan Ramey, they moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where Harlan was stationed in the US Navy.  Joyce later worked as the Village Clerk in New Lexington, for the American Cancer Society, and finally as a Utilities Relocator for The Ohio Department of Transportation where she retired after 22 years of service.  After retirement, Joyce traveled around Ohio teaching others about State of Ohio retirement benefits as the OPERS Chapter 46 Legislative Agent. Joyce loved involvement in her beloved Perry County.  She was a loyal, lifelong member of the Democratic Party.  She spent much time campaigning for local, state and federal candidates. She was the President of New Lexington Alumni Association at one time, and a member of the City Tree Commission.  She was always ready and willing to participate and lead. What Joyce loved most was her family.  She is survived by her husband, Harlan; four children, Denise Mitchell of Pataskala, Joni Goldsberry (Craig) of Pickerington, Eric Ramey (Sandy) of Thornville, and Marc Ramey (Rebecca) of Thornville; twelve grandchildren, Ashley Gavin (Shane), Kendra Hanley (Brandon), Alaina Martin (Troy), Xander Mitchell (Morgan), Audra Goldsberry (Matt), Alexa Pancoast (Scott), Wyatt Ramey, Paige Ramey, Jacob Ramey, Josie Ramey, Jenna Ramey, and Jack Ramey; and six great grandchildren, Myer and Emry Martin, Addison and Chloe Gavin, Cyrus Hanley, and Tate Pancoast; sister Marilyn Neff (Joe), brother Paul Bailey (Claire), special cousins (more like sisters) Gloria Smith (Ralph) and Jane Gilligan (Bob), Elaine Ramey, Paul Mitchell, and numerous other nieces, nephews and friends. Family and friends may call from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church in New Lexington.  A funeral service will be held at 1pm followed by burial in the New Lexington Cemetery. Donations can be made in Joyce’s honor to The Pickering House in Lancaster or The First United Methodist Church in New Lexington. Online obituary and register book at www.robertsdfuneralhomenelex.com

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