The body of Sgt. Jester Francisco Ramirez – a 2018 East Union High School graduate – has arrived back in Manteca to be laid to rest.
Ramirez passed away on April 4 in Killeen, Texas – the home of Fort Hood – and was transported by a Southwest flight to Oakland on Friday where he was greeted by a United States Army Honor Guard and a military hearse that transported his body back to Manteca where it will be prepared for burial.
Ramirez played basketball for the Lancers and was remembered by friends as an all-around nice guy that always had a smile on his face.
Ramirez was assigned to Company A, 4th Squadron, 9th Calvary Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team at Fort Hood – the most populous military installation in the world.
The staff of the 4-9 Calvary – the modern day incarnation of one of the original African-American regiments of the United States Army – offered their thoughts and prayers with the family at this difficult time and sent flowers for Ramirez’ funeral.
A funeral mass is scheduled to be held on Monday, April 19, at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church – located at 505 E. North Street in Manteca. Ramirez will be laid to rest later that afternoon at 1 p.m. in a graveside service at Park View Cemetery in French Camp – 3661 E. French Camp Road.
To contact reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.