On Friday, October 20, 2023, Ramona Braswell ascended to be with the angels in heaven. Despite her valiant battles with myotonic dystrophy and glioblastoma, she never wavered in her determination and spirit, defying the odds set before her. We deeply mourn the loss of our beloved Mona, but also find solace in her unwavering faith, and the belief that we will be reunited with her once again.
Ramona was born on March 16, 1958, in Ashland, Alabama. She graduated as Salutatorian from Lineville High School in 1976. Later, she attended the University of Alabama in Birmingham, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in biology in 1980. Ramona furthered her education by graduating from the Druid City Hospital School of Medical Technology in 1981, becoming an ASCP certified Medical Technologist. Professionally, she worked in laboratories at Druid City Hospital in Tuscaloosa, St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lafayette, Indiana, and also in the Alabama Department of Public Health state laboratory in Decatur. Ramona continued her dedicated service at the Huntsville Hospital laboratory, where she held a supervisory role for many years before her retirement.
Ramona married Danny Braswell on her birthday; March 16, 1979. This was after spending the previous summer as lab partners in physics class. Their beautiful daughter Rachel arrived in 1991.
Ramona was a person of keen intellect and curiosity. Her hobbies and passions included sewing, quilting, gardening, and camping, provided it was in the camper. She also immensely enjoyed music, especially the 70s songs. She was a member of Latham United Methodist Church in Huntsville for many years, where she sang in the choir. Despite her fondness for dining out, she was an exceptional cook. Her pecan pies, Caesar salad, and special Thanksgiving dressing were particularly renowned among those who knew her.
Ramona is survived by her husband of 44 years, Danny Braswell; their daughter, Rachel Braswell (John Beckman); her mother, Bonnie Wheeles; step-father, John R. Wheeles; Uncle Jesse Smith (Joann); Uncle Van Smith (Judy Carol); Aunt Carolyn Smith; as well as numerous cousins, friends, and extended family members. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, Rowdy J Longfellow. She was preceded in death by her father, Elvin Odell Amason; grandparents, Russell and Clara Smith, Ezra and Ethel Amason, and Marion and Cordelia Wheeles; and Uncle Jack Smith, Aunt Annie Smith, and Uncle John Smith (Aunt Waynette).
Ramona held St. Jude Children’s Hospital close to her heart as her favorite charity. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her memory. A memorial service will take place at Delta Baptist Church on Monday, October 23, at 2:00 PM, with visitation starting at 12:30 PM.
Benefield Funeral Home in Lineville, AL is handling arrangements.
