It is with great sorrow that the IFCPP family shares the news of our friend Steve Ramsay’s recent passing. Steve was a longtime IFCPP contributor and supporter, and cultural property protection community figure. Steve participated in numerous cultural property protection conferences, and co-hosted IFCPP’s Southeastern U.S. Regional Symposium in 2015. We’ll very much miss Steve’s comforting demeanor and quick wit. Our deepest condolences to Steve’s family and friends in Tulsa and beyond. Thank you, Steve, for honoring us with your friendship, professionalism, and kindness.

Following is an excerpt from Steve’s obituary.

Stephen Boyd Ramsay
September 18, 1954 - February 23, 2020

Stephen Boyd Ramsay was born September 18, 1954 and passed away on Sunday February 23, 2020 after a catastrophic stroke. He was born in Tulsa and graduated from Webster High School in 1972. He then received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He traveled extensively in his younger days; always roughing it, mainly up in the Yukon. The outdoors meant everything to him; climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. Steve spent several summers guiding fishing trips in Alaska, occasionally falling out of the raft which earned him the nickname “Otter”.

Steve retired from the Philbrook Museum of Art in January 2019 after 26 years where he was the Director of Safety and Security. He was insanely good at his job, working many long hours and all special events. Steve’s coworkers loved and admired him for his kindness, his humor, and his willingness to go above and beyond. Everyone who knew him has expressed their appreciation for his ability to help those in need and his contagious laugh.

Steve loved his family with his heart and soul. He was a loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather. His sense of humor kept us going through good times and difficult times. His family thanks everyone for their outpouring of love during this very difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 4th at Baxter’s Interurban, 717 South Houston, from 4-9 pm. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice, preferably to outdoor organizations or the American Stroke Association.