Betty Jean Ramey

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Betty Ramey, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, who left this world on April 13, 2025, at the age of 92. Betty was a true child of God, whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. 

Betty was born on December 4, 1932, in Hamilton, TX, the daughter of Arlin and Pauline (Looney) Massingill. After she graduated from high school, Jonesboro, TX high school in 1950 as the Class Secretary and a member of her high school the girls’ basketball team. Betty graduated from St. Joseph Nursing School in San Antonio in 1953. Betty married Marvin Vantries on August 28, 1952. She raised six wonderful children—Gwendolyn, Cynthia, Loren, Patricia, Natalie, and Barry—instilling in them a love of reading and a sense of service to others.

Betty was not only a devoted Christian but also a vibrant member of the Alexandria community. Her leadership roles included serving as President of the Ladies Aide at Nora Lutheran Church and President of T.O.P.S. for 12 years, where she inspired many with her dedication and passion. 

Betty had a zest for life that kept her busy. She was part of the Alexandria Readers Theater for 17 years, volunteered at the Alexandria Food Shelf every Wednesday for 14 years, and enjoyed square dancing with her late husband, Don. A true advocate for her community, she also worked as an election judge for 20 years—ensuring each voice was heard. 

Her caring nature extended to her work as a nurse, and in a testament to her determination and love for learning, she returned to college at 56 to earn her degree in Psychology and Counseling. Betty continued to work passionately with Alexandria Project New Hope well into her 70s. 

She also adored dogs, finding joy in the company of her Shih Tzu, Tootsie, who was a gift from her late husband, Don. Together, they shared many delightful and quiet moments until Tootsie's passing in 2018. In January of 2023, Betty lived at Autumn Cottages, where she adopted the entire staff and residents as her “children”. Betty took great delight in weekly visits from Loren and his dog, Luna.

Betty’s legacy of love, laughter, and genuine love for people will carry on in the hearts of her children and all who knew her.

Betty is survived by her children, Gwendolyn (Bob) Feuchtenberger of Morris, MN, Cynthia Vantries of North Carolina, and Loren Vantries of Alexandria; 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; and a sister Susan Cathcart of Florida.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Pauline Massingill White, Arlin Massingill, and the father who raised her, Tommie White; husbands, Marvin Vantries, and Donald Ramey; infant daughter, Patricia; daughter, Natalie Vantries; son, Barry Vantries; and her brother Tommie White Jr..

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 10:00 - 11:00 AM at Anderson Funeral Home. 

A Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Burial will be at Glenwood City Cemetery.