John David Ramsay

Col. John David Ramsay, MD (USAF-Ret.) passed away in White, SD on December 18, 2025. A memorial gathering for John will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, 2-5pm, at The Old Fire Hall, located at 310 4th Street, Brookings, SD.

John was born on October 18, 1944, in Ada, OK, the son of David C. and Virginia Sugg Ramsay. Growing up in Ada, John graduated from Ada High School in 1962. Continuing his education on a basketball scholarship at Southern Methodist University, he graduated with a B.S. degree in mathematics in1966. Upon receiving his draft notice, John joined the US Air Force, attending the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine on active duty, graduating in 1974. He completed his Residency training in Orthopedic Surgery at USAF Hospital Wilford Hall, San Antonio, TX. He was Board Certified by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

John and Donna M. Hickerson were married on Sept 4, 1966 in Ada, OK. They were blessed with two children Barbara Helm (Eric), Fallston, MD, and David 'Chris' Ramsay, Brookings.

John served as a Flight Surgeon, Clinic Commander, and Orthopedic Surgeon in the USAF until 1986, when he retired from active military duty and moved to White. Joining the Brookings Medical Clinic, John practiced orthopedic surgery in the community for the next 28 years. As an athlete himself, he especially enjoyed working with area high school and college sports programs, including the athletic training students at SDSU.

John played varsity basketball at SMU from 1962-1966. He also played tennis, "old-guy" basketball at the Wellness, and pickleball. Playing the bagpipe was his special interest, due to his Scottish heritage. He was a member of bands in Oklahoma City, San Antonio, and Brookings (Prairie Highlanders). He liked all horses but Appaloosas were his favorite. John took SDSU equine classes. He rescued a team of horses, Geno and Benny, from the glue factory to live their days frolicking on the Farm. John was known for his quiet, easy-going demeanor.

John is survived by his wife Donna; children Barbara and Chris; grandchildren Karah and Alex Helm (Fallston, MD); sister Lynn Hoke, Raleigh, NC; nephews Ramsay, Raleigh, NC and Ben Hoke (Katherine), Charlotte, NC.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dave and Virginia Ramsay, Ada, OK and parents-in-law Elzie and Gladys Hickerson, Coalgate, OK.