Ramona Massey Kean Mercil, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2023, at the age of 96, in her home surrounded by her children and beloved dog Emma, at her side. Ramona was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 23,1926, to Walter and Margaret Massey.

Ramona became a devout Catholic in her youth and found solace in her faith throughout her entire life.  She attended St. Joseph's Academy, Des Moines, Iowa, & graduated from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. Ramona taught kindergarten at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Des Moines, Iowa. During that time Ramona met her future husband, Jim Kean.

Jim's government career took their growing family from Iowa, to Omaha, and finally to Dallas where they raised their nine children, three sons and six daughters. Jim and Ramona created a wonderful family home environment, where their adult children and families spent countless Sunday afternoons.

After Jim's retirement, they moved to "The Island" on Lake Travis, Lago Vista, TX. They enjoyed several wonderful years there until Jim's passing in 1996. Jim and Ramona were married for 49 years.

Later, after Jim's passing, Ramona married Lowell Mercil and continued to live in Lago Vista for the next 7 years.  After Lowell's passing, Ramona moved to Robson Ranch, in Denton, TX to be closer to her family. She enjoyed excellent health in her almost 97 years.

Following the tragic death of her granddaughter, Ramona became actively involved with Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) in Dallas, TX. In addition, she was a volunteer at local hospitals, the Meals-On-Wheels program, and served meals at the community kitchen, Our Daily Bread, Denton, TX.

Ramona was known for her quick wit, humor & laughter, and her generous spirit. In addition, she was well known for maintaining a welcoming home that was always organized and spotless.  Ramona enjoyed travelling, reading, walking, and participating in regular community game nights.

For her entire adult life Ramona's dedication to her family was unwavering. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of nine children, twenty-nine grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren and two great grandchildren who are on the way, one great-great grandchild. She will be deeply missed by this incredible family as well as everyone who knew her.

Ramona's Ashes will be interred, next to her parents, at Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines, Iowa.