Mary Joanne Jasper

Joanne Ramsey Jasper, Somerset, KY passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2016, at her residence in Somerset, Kentucky, having attained the age of 83.  Joanne was born in Somerset, Kentucky on September 23, 1933 to the late W.H. (Bill) Ramsey, Jr. and Eula Judd Ramsey of Somerset.   She was united in marriage on December 23, 1953 in Somerset to Loyd G. Jasper of Somerset.  They shared 58 happy years together living in Somerset and enjoying their retirement in the Florida Keys until his death on December 27, 2011. She lived and loved life to the fullest.  She loved her family unconditionally and will be remembered for her big heart, sense of humor, and gentle spirit.   She and Loyd spent many happy years camping on numerous cross country trips and at Cumberland Point, house boating with her Conley Bottom (“Houseboat Holler”) friends, and enjoying the Florida Keys.  However, her greatest joy came from being the loving “Granny Jo” to her grandchildren and great granddaughter. She is survived by her two sons and their wives:   Bruce (and Linda) Jasper of Somerset and Bill (and Angie) Jasper, of Somerset and Amelia Island, Florida. She is also survived by her grandchildren and step-grandchildren:  Matthew Jasper of Asheville, North Carolina, Mary Katherine “Katie” Jasper (and Dylan) Smith of Somerset, Katie Brannick of Jacksonville, Florida, and Emily Brannick of Bowling Green, Kentucky.  She is also survived by her great granddaughter, August Jade Smith of Somerset. Other survivors include her brother and sister-in-law, W.H. (Bill) Ramsey, III and Phyllis of Okemos, Michigan.  She also leaves behind her faithful canine companion, Buddy. Joanne was a graduate of the Somerset High School Class of 1951, having recently attended their 65th class reunion.  Upon graduation, she attended the University of Kentucky and was proud to be a member of Alpha Delta Phi sorority. Joanne was a long time member of First Presbyterian Church of Somerset.  She had recently been attending the church of her childhood, First Baptist Church of Somerset. Joanne’s kind and loving heart extended well beyond her family and friends, especially to her students at the Cumberland Area School for the Handicapped. She was the head teacher for CASH at a time when few opportunities existed for these special children.  She is fondly remembered even now by several of her students and their families that were part of the school 40-50 years ago. The family wishes to express great appreciation to Mabel Denney, Susan Sabia, Beverly Stewart, and Belinda Wilson of Somerset for their friendship and loving care for Joanne during her illness.   Additionally, the family wishes to thank Sharon Reynolds and the staff of the Neighborhood of Somerset and Hospice of Lake Cumberland for their love and support to both Loyd and Joanne.    Visitation for Joanne Jasper will be held on Tuesday, November 1, 2016 in the chapel of Pulaski Funeral Home beginning at 11:00 am until time for funeral services there at 1:00 pm.  Burial will follow in the Somerset Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Pulaski County Alzheimer’s Disease Respite Center, P.O. Box 393, Somerset, KY  42502. Pulaski Funeral Home is honored to be in charge of all arrangements for Mrs. Jasper.