GARDNER, MA - Naomi Ruth Fortier passed away on January 15, 2021 at the Gardner Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Gardner. She was 88 years old.
Naomi was preceded in death by her beloved husband, of 65 years, Joseph J. Fortier Sr; her parents Ralph and Ollie Ramsey; and sisters June, Martha, Iona, Myrtle, Norma and Dorothy.
Born at Thorn Hill on August 29, 1932 in Grainger County, TN, she graduated from Halls High School and attended Marion College in Marion, VA. She was a dedicated wife and mother. For nearly four decades Naomi operated an antiques business and was well respected in her field.
Naomi lived the better part of her life in Worcester, MA, but held close to her roots. She told rich and beautiful stories of her youth in the Tennessee Hills. Naomi was an avid reader and an ardent conversationalist. She was a passionate gardener and never ceased to marvel at the beauty of nature.
She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her children Melody R. Fortier (Robert), Jeri J. Steele (John), Joseph J. Fortier Jr. (Susan), her brother David Ramsey (Marilyn) of Knoxville, Tennessee; as well as nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; along with many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held privately in the care of Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester. Donations may be made to the scholarship fund at Roanoke College (formerly Marion College) https://www.roanoke.edu/give/roanoke_fund/scholarships_and_endowment