Steven Pope Ramsey

Steven Pope Ramsey, 74, lost his battle with cancer on July 19, 2026, at the SECU Jim and Betsy Bryan Hospice Home of UNC Health in Pittsboro. Steve was born in Burgaw, NC, on August 25, 1951, to Herbert and Mary Ramsey. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cindy Horrell Ramsey, daughter Joy Ramsey Stutts and husband Dennis, daughter Kim Ramsey McEwen and husband Pete, son Bradley Steven Ramsey, and five granddaughters who were the light of his life: Kamryn, Lainey, Brynn, Emma, and Ava. He is also survived by his sisters Mary Ramsey Nanney and Celia Ramsey Urquhart along with their families, and many other extended family members and friends.

Steve spent the majority of his life in Pender County and attended Burgaw High School where he excelled in football and track, holding the state record in the 100-yard dash. He was an active member of his community coaching Little League for many years, participating in the Jaycees, and using his knowledge and talent to serve his neighbors and church in various ways.

Steve and Cindy were high school sweethearts who had been together for over 56 years. Cindy was first drawn to his contagious smile, then fell in love with the very special person that he was. Steve loved fiercely and deeply without bounds.

For many years, Steve was an avid fisherman and loved the opportunity to take his family camping on Hutaff Island where they made exceptional memories. Later in life, Steve and Cindy moved to Oak Island where they were active in the Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program and made many new friends. Having the opportunity to regularly share his love of the beach with his grandchildren was a simple joy. Steve and Cindy moved to Mebane in May of 2025 to be closer to family. When Steve was diagnosed a few months later, he believed that divine intervention had led him there — closer to world-class care at UNC and family. The time he was able to share with children and grandchildren on an almost daily basis was priceless.

Steve went to work at Diamond Shamrock Chemical Company when he was 19 along with a group of his high school friends. They were the maiden group of employees who got the plant up and running. He also made a number of life-long friendships there in his 35 years of service. Throughout the years after retirement, they shared monthly luncheons at Shirley’s Diner in Leland. Although the name of the plant changed several times, his dedication and work ethic never did. Steve provided well for his family throughout the years.

In his spare time Steve enjoyed woodworking, and after retirement began what he called a “hobby job” using his extraordinary artistic talent to make cutting boards, jewelry boxes, and other creations that he shared with family but also sold at craft shows and festivals for many years. He would have repeat customers coming back year after year to buy another item because they became priceless heirlooms.

Steve will be remembered as a quiet and gentle soul who would do anything for anybody who needed his help.

A floating, informal celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Endswell Funeral Home, 407 Meadowlands Drive, Hillsborough, NC, 2-4 p.m. A brief sharing of memories will begin at 2:30.