DeKalb County officials are mourning the death of Judge Ronald B. Ramsey Sr., a longtime public servant whose work impacted the legal and civic framework of both the county and the state of Georgia.
Judge Ramsey served in several roles throughout his career, including representing the 43rd District in the Georgia State Senate from 2007 to 2015. He resigned from the Senate after being appointed by Governor Nathan Deal as a judge on the DeKalb County State Court, Traffic Division. As presiding judge of Division B, he led efforts to adapt court operations during the pandemic by implementing virtual proceedings and advocating for a new courthouse.
Ramsey’s contributions extended beyond his judicial service. He was Chief Legal Officer for the DeKalb County School District, where enrollment dropped by 2.2% in the 2022-23 school year compared to the previous year (https://www.gadoe.org/), with total enrollment reaching 98,287 students during that period (https://www.gadoe.org/). In addition, white students made up 14% of DeKalb County schools’ student body in that same school year (https://www.gadoe.org/).
He also became the first African American Municipal Court Judge in Stone Mountain and worked as a mediator, educator, legislator, and jurist.
CEO Lorraine Cochran Johnson stated: “Judge Ramsey was more than a public servant. He was a pioneer, a mentor, and a beacon of leadership for DeKalb County. His contributions have strengthened the fabric of our community and inspired countless others to lead with courage and integrity. Today we mourn his passing, but we will forever honor his extraordinary legacy.”
Chief Judge Mike Jacobs of the State Court of DeKalb County said: “Ron was not only a colleague but a true friend. His wisdom, compassion, and leadership elevated all of us who had the privilege of serving alongside him. His legacy of service and fairness will continue to guide our court and our community for years to come.”
County officials offered condolences to Judge Ramsey’s wife Doris, their children, and family members.
The county emphasized its intent to remember Judge Ramsey’s commitment to justice and service.
