11
trees
planted in memory of Gary R. Ramsey
Obituary for Gary R. Ramsey
Gary R Ramsey
3/14/1959 – 9/15/2023
Gary graduated from Bogan High School in 1977. He was honored with a full scholarship to Stephen’s College in Columbia, MO where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Acting in 1981. He went on to study at Rutgers University, Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Acting in 1984.
He worked as a professional actor in many regional theaters, soap operas and Off-Broadway shows. He took a position teaching at the world-renowned Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theatre in New York City where he taught Voice, Speech, and the Alexander Technique for over thirty years. He taught Alexander and voice world-wide to thousands of students and celebrities.
Gary also had a successful career as an opera singer doing leading roles in New York City and in Europe. He originated the title role in the opera about the legendary football coach Bum Philips.
Gary gave generously to his students and friends and family. He helped many people heal all kinds of afflictions from sports injuries and stroke victims to preparing women for childbirth. He had a gift of guiding individuals to work on the mind - body connection, learning to relax, trusting the body, and focusing the mind. Working with Gary yielded miraculous results.
In 2015 he was diagnosed with renal cancer and told that his condition was so dangerous he could die any minute. Gary not only recovered from that heroic experience, but he also wrote a book about it. Bliss: One Hero’s Journey. His book and world-renowned podcasts and interviews helped many people accept and meet their life challenging illnesses with a new perspective.
Gary’s personal bout with cancer didn’t stop him from continuing to help others. He was always available to lend a hand to help a friend with moving, painting a room, or babysitting. His laughter and voracious spirit helped thousands of people through life’s challenges.
Though his cancer returned two years ago, he continued to teach privately. Gary was a man of many talents, but he was also very spiritual. When he quit working full time, he attended early morning mass at St. Aloysius Church in Jersey City every single day until his last weeks when he was unable to walk there. His resonant speaking voice gifted the attendees when he read the gospel followed by singing church hymns with his booming baritone voice. He stayed for the rosary and fellowship with the other parishioners.
Gary was kindest of humans, most generous of friends. a giant of a teacher and an angel to us all.
His siblings, Paula, Mark & George and their families along with numerous relatives, friends, co-workers and former students will miss him madly.
Cremation for Gary was Private.
For additional information, call Suburban Family Funeral Home at 708-652-1116.
To plant a tree in memory of Gary R. Ramsey, visit the Tribute Store.
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