William "Bill" Jefferson Ramia's Obituary
William Jefferson Ramia, affectionately known as Bill, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the age of 92.
Born in Meridian, Mississippi, Bill was the son of Joseph and Inez Ramia. He was a devoted husband, loving father of four, grandfather of seven, and proud great-grandfather of fifteen. His greatest joy in life was his family.
Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army, an experience that instilled in him a lifelong love of country and deep appreciation for those who serve.
In his late thirties, Bill discovered a passion for running that became a defining part of his life. He often ran at three o'clock in the morning, eventually becoming so familiar to the local police that they no longer questioned the "suspicious man" running through town in the middle of the night. He was especially proud to have qualified for the Boston Marathon twice, but beyond the accomplishments, he simply loved the discipline, freedom, and rhythm of running.
Bill was known for his remarkable memory and his endless curiosity. He was a master of interesting facts and a devoted fan of Jeopardy, rarely missing an opportunity to test his knowledge.
Although he enjoyed many pursuits, nothing brought Bill greater happiness than his family. His face would light up whenever he heard the name or voice of one of his children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren. He treasured every phone call, every visit, and every photograph, delighting in watching each new generation grow.
Bill dedicated his career to the United States Treasury Department, where he served as a National Bank Examiner. He was respected for his relentless work ethic, integrity, and exceptional memory for names and dates. Following his retirement, he continued serving the banking industry as an independent consultant, traveling throughout the South to evaluate loan practices and help banks strengthen their lending policies.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Inez Ramia; his brothers, John, George, and Louis Ramia; his sisters, Annie Marie Ramia Hiatt Hodge and Roselie Ramia Perryman; and his beloved daughter, Melanie Ann Ramia.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Gay LeCompte Ramia; his children, William Jefferson Ramia, Jr.(Patricia), Linda Ramia Berry (Shane), and Amy Ramia Prenger; his grandchildren, Nathan Ramia, Anna Ramia, Jonas Wilson Berry (Erika), Brian Shane Berry (Crissy), Kayla Berry Townsend (Stephen), William Bryce Berry (Mallory), and Jeremy Prenger (Ashley); and his cherished great-grandchildren, Juliet, Collins, Ellie, Zoë, Colson, Miles, Samuel, Emmaline, Hannah, Haven, Brynlee, Shiloh, Banner, Malea, and Kinley.
Bill will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his quiet strength, his disciplined spirit, and the kindness and integrity that characterized his life. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the countless lives he touched through his example.
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