Glee A. Ramaley of Oak Harbor died early Monday, Oct. 4, 2004, at her home on Scenic Heights Road. She was with her three children when she succumbed to cancer at age 74 after a brief illness.

At Mrs. Ramaley’s request, no formal services will be held. A private gathering of family and friends was held at the family home on Wednesday.

Born Jan. 3, 1930, in Everett to Cecil M. and Ann S. Ballinger, she attended public schools there, graduating from Everett High School in 1948. After attending Everett Junior College (EJC) for two years, she transferred to Western Washington University (then Western Washington State College), and received her degree in teaching in 1952.

She met Harold E. (Hal) Ramaley of Monroe in a speech class at EJC in 1949. They were married in 1951. Both Glee and Harold went on to Western, and came to Oak Harbor in 1952 for their first teaching assignments after graduation. Harold went on to become a popular Oak Harbor elementary school principal and city leader. Glee taught elementary school for most of 42 years in Oak Harbor and briefly in Coupeville, taking a few years off to raise her young children. She retired in 1994. Mrs. Ramaley cherished the close friendships forged over the years of teaching, particularly with many of her fellow staff members at Clover Valley Elementary in Oak Harbor.

Glee and Harold were active members of Whidbey Whirlers Square Dance Club until Harold’s death in 1986. One of her children’s fondest memories is the image of Glee all decked out in her square dancing dress, and Harold in his bolo tie, heading out for an evening of dancing. They truly loved square dancing, and Harold eventually became caller for the club.

In retirement, Glee enjoyed gardening and reading, and walked regularly with her friends.

Glee is preceded in death by her parents, sister Gail Ballinger of Marysville, and husband Harold. She is survived by her children Mark Ramaley and daughter-in-law Valorie of Bellevue, Karen Chrisman and son-in-law Al of Sequim, and Carol Belyea and son-in-law Steve of Snohomish, and three grandchildren.

The family asks that remembrances be made to Oak Harbor Garden Club, in the name of Harold and Glee Ramaley, for the continuation of beautification projects around the city.

Arrangements by Burley Funeral Chapel.