Ismael Montanez Ramos “Pop”, 91, of Rome, NY passed away on February 12, 2026, at Rome Health. Born on September 10, 1934, in Harlem, NY, he was the son of the late Ismael Ramos and Felicita Montanez. Ismael graduated from high school in San Francisco, CA and later obtained his associate’s degree from MVCC. He was united in marriage to the love of his life Edna Mae Smith in Fort Plain, NY on November 1, 1958, together they shared a blessed union and beautiful life until her passing in May 2001.

Ismael proudly served his country and earned the title of Master Sergeant. He served in the US Army for 9 years and then the US Air Force for 12 years, he served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He was a patriot through and through and the love for his country ran deep. Ismael was a member of the VFW and the Rome American Legion. Ismael loved his family and spending time with them was undoubtedly his greatest joy. He loved to watch his children and grandchildren play various sports and rarely missed a game. Born and raised in NY, he was an avid New York Yankees fan and enjoyed any chance to watch them play. He was a member of St. John’s Church. Pop’s humor, love and family values will be greatly missed by his family but will also continue through them. He will be missed by his friends at the Iron Kettle Restaurant and DONna’s Café where he was a regular for breakfast and coffee along with his friends at DeMatteo’s where he had lunch with his family every Saturday. 

Ismael is survived by his sons Terry (Lori) Ramos of Alva, FL, Timothy (Maria) Ramos of Rome, NY and Thomas Ramos of Floyd, NY; his daughter Dalia (David) Pettinelli of Rome, NY; sisters Elvira Ramos and Dalia Luciano; grandchildren Christopher (Julie) Ramos and Anthony (Jacqueline) Ramos; Tiffany (Fred) Peck and Timothy Ramos; David Pettinelli Jr. and Kristina (Alan) Peckham; Anthony and Nico Ramos; great grandchildren Kaylee, Aubrey, Bianca, Samantha, Mark, and Anna; his canine companions Tanner, Lady, Buddy, Bella, and Yogi. He was predeceased by his wife Edna Mae Smith Ramos, his brothers Louis Ramos and Rolando Luciano.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Rome Health for the care and compassion shown to them throughout this difficult time.

Calling hours will be held Saturday February 21, 2026, from 11:00-2:00PM at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd, Rome, NY 13440. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM. A private burial will take place at St. John’s Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306.