The world became a little less bright on Monday, March 9, 2026, with the peaceful passing of Robert “Friendly Bob” Ramsay. Though our hearts are heavy, we can celebrate his homecoming with the Lord and a joyful reunion with so many. Bob’s love, generosity, and curiosity about others, travel, and fun brought unending conversations and joy to everyone around him.
Born on March 15, 1928, in Baltimore, Md., Bob was a lifelong artist who graduated from the Philadelphia College of Art and used his talents throughout his career as an art director/commercial artist. He loved photography and painting, sharing his works with many.
Bob and his first love, Ruth, took up sailing, which ultimately brought them from Richmond to Urbanna, to retirement by the water, and Yankee Point Yacht Club. After her passing, he was blessed to find another great love in Audrey McClure. For 14 years, they have loved and cared for each other, surrounded by their friends in Urbanna.
Bob was a true servant throughout his life. He was a Scout and camp counselor in his youth and proudly served in the Army in Korea. He loved serving his community and was a driver for the Urbanna Rescue Squad, delivered “Meals On Meals,” was a Kiwanis member (he loved reading to the schoolchildren), and volunteered at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church with “Nail and Sail” many summers with the youth. Until his death, Bob was always making new friends.
Bob fiercely loved his Lord Jesus, his family, and his lifelong community of friends. He will be remembered by his loving wife, Audrey (14 years); his first wife, Ruth (56 years), who preceded him in death; his children, Ann (Mike) Campbell and their children Christie Wright (Jeremy), Chase Campbell (Amanda); Joan Ramsay-Johnson (Carl), Robert Ramsay Jr. and his children with Sophie Howard, Matt and Nick Ramsay; nephews, Ted Ramsay and David Ramsay; great-grandchildren that adored him, Michelle, Olivia, Cade, Nicolas and Ramsay. He was additionally blessed with three stepchildren, Steve, Stuart (deceased), and Gail and Susan (Scott).
Bob never knew a stranger and had countless friends and extended family in Urbanna and around the country.
We would like to thank the Urbanna Rescue Squad for always being there when needed and the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) nMedical Center ICU and stepdown staff on 3C for their compassionate care during our stay.
A celebration of life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28 at Urbanna United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad, Urbanna Meals on Wheels (Bay Aging), or Urbanna United Methodist Church.
