COL (R) Barbara Johnson Ramsey

COL (R) Barbara Ramsey passed away peacefully on 9 July 2025 while holding her husband’s hand. A warrior until the end, she fought but ultimately succumbed to a long term fight with cancer. Barbara was born in Cleveland, Ohio to Mary and Reginald Johnson, being the first of five children. Upon graduation from West Geauga High School in Chesterland, Ohio she attended Cleveland Metropolitan school of nursing joining the Army Student Nurse program her senior year.

COL (R) Ramsey built a long and accomplished career. After completion of nursing school, Barbara received her commission as a 2nd lieutenant in the Army Nurse Corps and reported to her first duty assignment at Reynolds Army Hospital, Ft. Sill Oklahoma. It was while at Ft. Sill she met Jim after his return from Vietnam. Her career highlights include the Chief Nurse of the Pentagon Health Clinic, Chief Nurse of the 41st Combat Support Hospital, Ft. Sam Houston Texas, Inspector General team member Medical Command Europe, Deputy Director Combat Medic School, Assistant Chief Nurse of the 121 Evacuation Hospital, Seoul Korea and then worked at the Combat Development and Training program, Ft. Sam Houston, Texas before her initial retirement at age 62. COL (R) Ramsey was recalled back to active duty to add her expertise to the development of the Tri-service medic school before retiring again at age 64. Upon retirement from the military, she joined her husband Jim in the role of President in their established and flourishing healthcare consulting company Medical Services International. Barbara also served as a board member with Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and the Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA).

Her awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Achievement Medal (with oak leaf cluster) and Defense Service Medal with Service Star.

She leaves behind the love of her life and husband of nearly 55 years, James L. Ramsey and her son Fergus Ramsey, her heart and reason for living. She also leaves behind her faithful Scottie dog and companion “Deuce” who never left her side. Family includes Barbara’s four siblings, Marcia Prince (husband Ron Prince), Paul Johnson, Patricia Caddell (husband Jerry Caddell) and sister Andrea Fuller (husband Scott). She also leaves behind a sister in law Jane Caywood, nephews Scott Ramsey, Ryan Ramsey, BJ Ramsey, Jeff Prince, Sam Fuller and Reggie Johnson, nieces Megan Prince, Jenny Johnson, Devon and Alise Fuller.

Barbara fiercely loved her family, friends and country. She was an avid runner, skier and enjoyed riding with Jim on their Harley Davidson across country, to the Sturgis motorcycle rally and the annual Rolling Thunder ride in Washington DC to raise awareness for POW/MIA. She was a proud and accomplished Army nurse and military officer who mentored and encouraged others to excel in their life and career. Anyone who knew Barbara enjoyed her tremendous sense of humor and beautiful smile. The world lost a good one and she will be sorely missed.