Mark Edwin Ransford

Mark Edwin Ransford, 72, Bloomington, passed away peacefully on January 31, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Mark was born on July 9, 1948 to Lloyd Allen Ransford and Betty Jean (Bosley) Ransford in Clinton, Indiana. He attended Clinton High School, where he ran track and played football. After graduation, he completed a bachelor’s degree in education at Indiana State University. He holds a master’s degree in education from ISU and a Ph.D. in education leadership from Indiana University, Bloomington. Beginning with his first position as a middle-school math teacher at Glendale Middle School, he spent his career dedicated to public education. Mark served as an administrator in the Shoals Community School Corporation, Pike County School Corporation, and Union County School Corporation until his retirement. He returned to work with children at Grandview Elementary until his death. Mark was passionate about providing all students with the best possible education and mentoring his teachers and staff. In addition to his work, Mark enjoyed fishing and canoeing lakes and rivers; he was an avid sports fan who loved a high school game as much as a professional one. Over the years, he was an active member of Shoals Christian Church, Petersburg Christian Church, and, most recently, Sherwood Oaks Christian Church. He volunteered his time with many organizations such as the Lions Club, Optimist Club, and the IU Student Foundation. Mark is survived by his wife of 50 years, Faith; two children, Amy and Beth; granddaughter, Sophie; brother Lloyd Bradley Ransford; Brad and Rita Lawson; Gail Williams and Erin Medved; and nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. Mark was predeceased by Lloyd Allen Ransford (father), Betty Jean Ransford (mother), and Gary Allen Ransford (brother). A celebration of life will be handled by Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home later this year. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to IU Health Hospice House (2810 S. Deborah Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403), which provided compassionate care to Mark and his family in his final days or to Hoosier Hills Food Bank (2333 W Industrial Park Drive, Bloomington, IN 47404). Online condolences may be made to the family at www.DayDeremiahFrye.com