Ramona Elaine Gerrish

Ramona Elaine Gerrish, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, quietly left this world for heaven on January 29, 2025, after bravely fighting her battle. Born on November 27, 1943, in Greenville, South Carolina, she graced the world with a warmth and kindness that made her the sweetest woman you could ever meet. Brought into this world by a midwife named Auntie Mae, Ramona's life was a tapestry woven with love, generosity, and an unwavering spirit.

Ramona dedicated a significant portion of her life to serving others through her work. She was employed at the Carlisle School for the Blind, before retiring from the L. M. Berry Company in 2001. Her professional journey was marked by kindness and a nurturing spirit, traits that she carried into her personal life.

A proud graduate of Carlisle High School, Class of 1961, Ramona furthered her education by attending Bob Jones University in 1962 while living with her beloved grandmother in Greenville. Her passion for learning and adventure shaped her gracious personality, contributing to the sweetness that defined her interactions with others. She was known as the "grandmother to everyone," exhibiting boundless love, generosity, and patience throughout her life.

Family gatherings were often highlighted by Ramona’s culinary talents. She cherished her role as the main cook for family dinners, relishing every moment in the kitchen. Her home was always a welcoming haven where guests were greeted with warmth and an abundance of delicious food. Cooking was not merely a hobby for Ramona; it was a manifestation of her love for family and friends.

In addition to her culinary skills, Ramona found joy in planting vegetables and flowers in her garden, creating a beautiful outdoor space that reflected her nurturing spirit. Shopping, particularly at the Dollar Store, also brought her delight, and she could often be found exploring the aisles for unique treasures.

Ramona's proudest accomplishments included being a loving grandmother and the supportive wife of a pastor. She was surrounded by family and friends who adored her, including her daughter, Joy (Lester) Kirby; her grandchildren, Lenora Laine Kirby, Sebastian (Demi), Nathan, Harley, and Ashley; her sister, Victoria Hunsaker; her nephews, Philip, Reggie (Lesa); her nieces, Becky, Meredith, Venus, and Vanessa; and her sisters-in-law, Rita Brown and Bonnie Brown, as well as special friends, Ronnie, Becky, and Rob (Donna). She will be missed by her many great nieces and nephews.

Ramona is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Gerrish; her daughter, Angela Dawn Gerrish; her son, Thomas Gerrish Jr.; her parents, Robert and Elizabeth Brown; her grandson, Robert Thomas Adams; her siblings, Michael Brown, Ralph Brown, Milton Brown, and Sharon Abrams; and her brothers-in-law, William Hunsaker and Ernest Abrams.

Ramona fought a good fight and quietly left for heaven, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3940 Kettering Blvd. Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery in West Carrollton. Pastor John Harmony to officiate.

To share a memory of Ramona or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.