Joan Mary Ramey

Joan was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on December 30, 1930 to Eunice and Howard Erickson. She spent her early years traveling with her parents due to her father’s work. She received her early education by attending schools in 36 different states. She finalized her academic life with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Special Education from the University of Oklahoma in 1953.

She and her husband, Darol, met as freshmen at the University of Minnesota in 1949. They married in 1954 and moved to Midland in 1958. They had two sons, Bruce Stephen of Rocky Mont, North Carolina and Brian Patrick of Midland, Texas.

Joan was active in several community organizations; Alpha Chi Omega Sorority Alumni, League of Women Voters, Arthritis Foundation, Midland Bi-Centennial Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission and the Crime Prevention Commission in Midland. While living in Natchez, Mississippi, Joan served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate and guardian ad-lidum for abused and neglected children.

Joan was a real-estate sales agent in Midland for 25 years. She served on the Midland Board of Realtors for seven years and served as President of the Board in 1979 and 1980. She also served with the Texas State Board of Realtors.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Eunice and Howard Erickson. She is survived by her loving and beloved family: her husband Darol; her two sons, Bruce and wife Adelia, Brian and wife Patricia; six grandchildren, Breanna, Jason, Stephen, and Marissa of North Carolina, Devon and Michael of Midland, Texas; two great grandchildren, Taylor, and Daniel of North Carolina. Her love and compassion will be missed by her family and her friends.

Joan tried to live by this code: “We only walk through life one time. Make that walk a loving, giving and productive one. Never compromise your principles and always succeed to your greatest potential, for only then can you be truly happy and satisfied with your life.”

We wish to extend a special thank you to Yolanda Jimenez whose loving care for Joan has made Joan’s last years and her passing much easier for her and her family.

A visitation will be held from 6:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2014 at Ellis Funeral Home, with a Rosary at 7:00p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Monday, October 13, 2014 at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel, with Monsignor Larry Droll officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of Midland, or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com