NEWMAN, CA – The Westside community is reeling after the tragic discovery of Kelsy Ann Ramos' body in Selma, California, on Monday, May 5, following a four-day intensive search. The devastating news brought an outpouring of grief for the beloved 44-year-old, whose life was tragically cut short.
A poignant vigil was held on Saturday, to honor Kelsy's memory. Pastor Grant from Orestimba Presbyterian Church delivered a heartfelt and moving oration, celebrating the beautiful life of Kelsy. The service continued with a touching rendition of "Heaven By Noon" sung by Marissa, offering solace to the grieving attendees.
Kelsy’s journey to becoming a cherished member of the Ramos family began in 1988 when she was adopted at the age of eight, along with her two sisters, by Teri and Russ Ramos. Born on June 19, 1980, Kelsy blossomed into a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many.
During the vigil, Pastor Grant spoke of Kelsy's incredible drive and ambition. Despite the demanding schedule of nursing school, from which she graduated in 2022, Kelsy successfully ran multiple businesses. Her passion for caring extended beyond her profession; she was known for her nurturing spirit towards everyone she met. Her dedication shone brightly through Golden Age Living, the care facilities she established in Turlock and Newman, where she created havens of compassion and exceptional care for others.
"Kelsy was a go-getter, an overachiever maybe, but very determined," Pastor Grant shared, highlighting her unwavering commitment, especially to her stepchildren, whom she loved deeply.
The service also included a moving performance of "Over the Rainbow" by Jared Amaral. Throughout the vigil, numerous individuals shared heartfelt anecdotes about Kelsy's kindness, her boundless love for others, and her vibrant spirit. She was remembered as the life of the party, a radiant light capable of illuminating any room she entered.
Pastor Grant offered words of comfort by reading a powerful quote from Jim Carrey on grief: "Grief is not just an emotion — it's an unraveling, a space where something once lived but is now gone. It carves through you, leaving a hollow ache where love once resided. In the beginning, it feels unbearable, like a wound that will never close. But over time, the raw edges begin to mend." These words resonated deeply with the family and friends who held Kelsy so dear, serving as a beautiful tribute to the extraordinary person she was.
While overwhelmed with profound grief, Kelsy's family expressed their sincere gratitude for the immense outpouring of love and support they have received from the community during this incredibly difficult time.
A funeral ceremony to celebrate the life of Kelsy Ann Ramos will be held on Saturday, May 24, at 10 a.m. at St. Joachim’s Church in Newman. Following the ceremony, the burial will take place at Hills Ferry Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. A gathering for family and friends will be held at FDES Hall, located at 1357 R Street in Newman, CA, at 1 p.m. The community is invited to join in honoring Kelsy's memory and offering continued support to her grieving family.
