Thomas Boyd Ramey Jr.

Thomas Boyd Ramey, Jr. went home to live in eternity with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 9, 2015. Tom practiced law by profession and was a tireless community leader who had a profound impact on countless people and organizations in Tyler and throughout Texas. Tom was a graduate of Kemper Military School and Tyler Junior College. He also received degrees from Harvard Business School and The University of Texas School of Law. During World War II, he served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Orleck. He practiced law for over 30 years with Ramey and Flock. In 1982, he accepted a position on the Twelfth Court Of Appeals. He served as Chief Justice of this court from 1989-2000. Throughout his life, Tom served faithfully on countless boards and organizations. In 1984, he was elected President of the State Bar of Texas. He also served as President of the Smith County Bar Association, was a member of the House of Delegates to the American Bar Association, and President of the Texas Council of Chief Justices. He was Past President of the Texas Rose Festival Association and the Order of the Rose. He also served on the Board of the University of Texas School of Law Foundation, the Development Board of the University of Texas at Tyler Health Center, and Junior Achievement. In 1997, he received the Distinguished Alumnus for Community Affairs Award from The University of Texas School of Law. His most beloved commitments were those that furthered the cause of Jesus Christ. In particular, he was committed to the ministry of Marvin United Methodist Church, Christian radio station KVNE, Youth with a Mission, the Salvation Army, and countless missionaries. Tom's great earthly love was his wife of 64 years, Jill King Ramey. He is survived by his wife; son and daughter-in-law, Tom Ramey, III and Gina; son and daughter-in-law, Henry King Ramey and Lynn; and daughter and son-in-law, Claire Ramey Turner and Terry. He loved his four grandchildren with great passion-- Grace Hartley Ramey, Laura Stacy Ramey, Archer King Ramey and Joy Lynn Ramey. He also had a great love for a nephew-in-law, Hartley Flath. Tom's faith and love for his Savior was deep and was evidenced in and by all he encountered, whether old friend or new acquaintance. Ever the consummate gentleman, all who knew him were blessed and encouraged in their faith. He will be forever missed by both family and friends. However, we believe, without reservation, that he is now in eternal glory with his Lord. A celebration of his life will be at Marvin United Methodist Church at 11:00 am on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home. The family will be honored to receive friends at a reception at the church immediately following the service. Honorary pallbearers are Henry Bell, Britt Brookshire, Tim Brookshire, Tom Brown, Dr. Doug Coltman, Tracy Crawford, Edward Davies, Tom Henson, Dr. John Hudnall, Dr. George Hurst, Rick Jett, Michael Jones, Jim McCain, Whit Riter, Bill Ross, Dr. Pat Thomas, Chris Woldert, Tom Woldert, and Trey Yarbrough. Memorials may be sent in lieu of flowers to any of the following: Marvin United Methodist Church, 300 West Erwin Street, Tyler, Texas 75702; Thomas B. Ramey Elementary School, 2000 North Forrest Avenue, Tyler, Texas 75702; Radio Station KVNE, PO Box 8525, Tyler, Texas 75711; The Salvation Army of Tyler, PO Box 2050, Tyler, Texas 75710 or to the charity of your choice.

Thomas Boyd Ramey Jr.

July 9, 1925 - October 9, 2015