Obituary of Ramona Peterson

Ramona Lee (Mays) Peterson passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on the morning of January 12, 2016, from a year-long battle with cancer. She was 56.She was born March 24, 1959, in Springfield, Oregon to her parents David and Ruth Mays. She graduated from Thurston High School in 1977, and 1982 she graduated from Western Oregon University with her degree in Education.On July 20, 1986, Ramona married Albert (Butch) Peterson. They owned and operated the Springfield Flower Shop. At the same time, Ramona was a substitute teacher and worked at the Springfield Answering Service. Her determination and perseverance led her to the most rewarding career in education. Her teaching career spanned thirty-five years, spending time at Jefferson Middle School and the last ten years at Cal Young Middle School in Eugene, Oregon. She was a passionate and inspiring math educator that had a knack for attuning to students learning needs. She loved teaching and referred to all of her students as “her kids”.When school let out for the summer, Ramona became an avid traveler. Her adventurous and independent spirit led her throughout the U.S., Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska and all over Europe. She was always planning the next vacation.Ramona loved the outdoors from the mountains to the beach. She enjoyed camping, hiking, biking, crawdadding, and geocaching. She loved to cook, enjoyed bowling and always had fun playing cards and board games. Most of all, Ramona liked spending time with family and friends in which she cherished the moments greatly. Her laughter and a keen sense of humor will be truly missed.Ramona brought joy and enthusiasm for living to so many. Her laughter, open heart, and warm smile were infectious. She was confident, compassionate, loving and kind. Ramona was not only a sister, aunt, cousin, or friend to everyone she met, she was also a counselor, a social organizer, and the ultimate planner for events. Her zest for life was never-ending.She belonged to the Church of God 7th Day in Harrisburg and her belief in the Lord kept her strong. Even toward the end of her life, she fought with grace and strength. All loved her, and her example will continue to grow in our hearts.She is survived by her mother Ruth Mays of Springfield, sister Gloria Mays of Springfield, nephews Jorin Mays-Burnett and Eric Mays-Burnett of Springfield, nephews Jared Mays of St. Helens and Keagan Mays of Wilsonville, niece Salena Mays of Springfield, sister-in-law Gwen Mays of St. Helens, along with many beloved cousins, friends and adopted family.Ramona is preceded in death by her husband Albert (Butch) Peterson, father David Mays, brother Randy Mays.The Celebration of Ramona’s Life will take place Sunday, January 24 at 11:00 am at Church of God 7th Day in Harrisburg, Oregon. Potluck immediately following.A Ramona Peterson Memorial Fund has been established with NW Community Credit Union.Arrangements are under the direction of the Springfield Memorial Funeral Home in Springfield, Oregon.