of Harrison, AR

January 2, 1932 - May 17, 2023

Rita Burgess Ramsey, age 91, of Harrison passed from this life on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. She was born on January 2, 1932, in Texarkana, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Helen (Titus) Burgess; her husband, Charles Ramsey and a son, Dean Ramsey.

Rita began a storybook romance with her future husband in the 8th grade in Texarkana. In high school, Rita was the homecoming queen and Charles football captain. They spent their early married years in Little Rock, where Charles worked for J.C. Penney Company and Rita concentrated on homemaking, delicious cooking, and parenting. In 1970, they fulfilled a dream of living in Harrison, close to the Buffalo River. It was there that Rita helped to open and run Harrison House, a clothing store and later, Ramsey Nursery. Her love of people and attention to detail greatly contributed to the success of both businesses. Rita's skill and love of gardening were evident when helping customers at Ramsey Nursery.

People and animals alike recognized Rita's kind and sympathetic heart. Over the years, she loved a host of dogs, cats, and even birds. These animals were considered family members. Their two cats even traveled with them during RV trips. Rita greatly enjoyed these trips. The coast of Maine was her favorite.

Rita loved the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She was a lifelong member there and served in many capacities. She was deeply spiritual and enjoyed discussing complex or controversial theology. Her faith never wavered.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Satterfield (Greg) of Green Forest, and her son, Chris Ramsey of Harrison. She also leaves her grandchildren, Matt Satterfield (Lauren) of Little Rock, Allison Satterfield of Colorado, Joe Ramsey (Olivia) of Little Rock, Marcus Ramsey (MacKinna) of Springdale, Katelynn Nichols (Zach) of Harrison and Madison Ramsey or Harrison and her great-grandchildren, Henry, Jack and Cora Satterfield, Wright, Annie and Liddie Ramsey and Ozzie Ramsey.


The funeral service was Monday, May 22, 2023, at First Christian Church in Harrison, AR. The interment was in Maplewood Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Marcus Ramsey, Joe Ramsey, Matt Satterfield, and Greg Satterfield. Honorary pallbearers are the Hearthstone Sunday School Class.

Memorials may be made to First Christian Church, 915 S. Maple St., Harrison, AR 72601 or Ozark Humane Society, 5147 Rock Springs Rd. W, Harrison, AR 72601.

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