Barbara Jean Perez

Barbara Jean Perez (nee Ramsey), 67, of Sheffield Lake, passed away peacefully Monday, May 18, 2026, at her cousin’s home following a lengthy illness. Though her family grieves her loss deeply, they also celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, family traditions, and countless treasured memories.

Born May 31, 1958, in Amherst, Ohio, Barbara moved to Sheffield Lake while in elementary school and remained a proud lifelong resident of the community she loved.

Barbara graduated from Brookside High School in 1977, where she met the love of her life, Miguel Perez. Their love story spanned nearly five decades and was built on devotion, friendship, and the joy of raising a family together.

Throughout her life, Barbara worked hard and brought warmth and kindness everywhere she went. She held positions with Scandinavian Health Spa, Casters, William Barr, Brookside High School, and later worked as a merchandiser for Hallmark and American Greetings, a fitting role for someone who loved bringing smiles to others.

Barbara found her greatest happiness in the simple moments shared with family and friends. Sunday dinners were sacred to her, and she especially cherished holiday gatherings filled with laughter and love. One of her favorite traditions was baking Christmas cookies with her granddaughters, creating memories they will carry with them forever. She loved trying new recipes, playing the piano, spending evenings doing puzzles with Miguel, playing cards with friends, and doting on her beloved dog, Toby. Barbara also had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed watching Drew Carey. She never passed up the thrill of hunting for hidden treasures at thrift stores, garage sales, and estate sales, often finding joy not just in the discoveries, but in the adventure itself.

More than anything, Barbara will be remembered for the love she gave so freely to her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 49 years, Miguel Perez of Sheffield Lake; sons, Michael Perez of Avon Lake and Tony Perez of Sheffield; cherished granddaughters, Kelsey Castaneda and Kalley Perez; mother, Patricia (nee Edwards) Ramsey; sisters, Debbie (Steve) Reust of Vermilion, Karen (Nick) Gallogly, and Connie (Lance) Dlugosz; as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenna Ramsey; beloved maternal grandparents, Helen and Harold Edwards; paternal grandparents, Lester and Jurley Ramsey; brother, Robert Ramsey; sister, Kathy Lee Ramsey; daughter-in-law, Ashley Perez; and nephews, Robbie Lee, Terry Hall Jr., and Freddy Perez Jr.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 3:00 p.m until the time of the service at 5:00 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio.

The family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Mercy Ships.

Online condolences may be made at Riddle Funeral Home.