Cecil Beresford Ramage, a Renaissance man of Scottish descent, entered the world on January 17, 1895, thus commencing a life journey that would be characterized by an eclectic array of interests, endeavors, and achievements.
As a distinguished and accomplished barrister, he possessed a profound understanding of the intricate and multifaceted realm of law, thereby enabling him to deftly navigate the labyrinthine complexities of the legal system with an air of effortless proficiency, much like a seasoned guide leading a group through a dense and unfamiliar forest.
Beyond his illustrious career in his chosen profession, Ramage concurrently pursued a passion for the performing arts, skillfully demonstrating his multifaceted talents on both the theatrical stage and the silver screen, thereby showcasing his remarkable versatility and range as an artist.
Throughout the entirety of his illustrious career, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, devoting himself to the Liberal party and dedicating himself to the noble pursuit of creating a profound and lasting impact upon the fabric of his community.
As a patriotic individual, Ramage took the oath to dedicate his life to serving his nation's interests by accepting a commission as an officer in the esteemed Royal Scots regiment, a decision that would lead him to participate in several pivotal military campaigns during the tumultuous period of World War I.
Noted for his unwavering courage and unrelenting dedication to the noble cause of war, he was bestowed the esteemed Military Cross, a most distinguished accolade that acknowledged his extraordinary achievements and outstanding commitment to the Allied forces.
As the Second World War was slowly coming to an end, a significant turning point in history, Ramage made the decision to enroll at Pembroke College, Oxford, a renowned institution of higher learning, where he would subsequently ascend to the esteemed position of President of the Oxford Union, a prestigious role that would not only provide him with invaluable leadership experience but also serve as a catalyst for the launch of his acting career, which would eventually become a defining aspect of his professional life.
Ramage's initial foray onto the stage occurred during this specific period, marked by a notable performance in a theatrical production of Antony and Cleopatra, a legendary tale of ancient Rome's most infamous lovers.
As the years unfolded, the loving couple embarked on a journey of building a life filled with joy, love, and commitment. This remarkable pair, bound together by an unbreakable bond, would soon discover the immense pleasure of parenthood, as they welcomed not one, but two precious little miracles into their world. These two tiny bundles of joy would bring immense happiness and fulfillment to their parents' lives, as they watched their children grow and flourish under their loving care.
Notwithstanding his initial inclination towards a career in the entertainment industry, Ramage, instead of following through on his original aspirations, opted to pivot and embark on a path of academic pursuit, deciding to study law and subsequently being admitted to the prestigious and esteemed Middle Temple, where he meticulously honed his skills as a barrister on the Oxford Circuit, no doubt laying the groundwork for a successful and illustrious career in the legal profession.
Notable among Ramage's numerous pursuits was his foray into the realm of politics, where he boldly took the leap by registering as the Liberal Party's candidate for the electoral district of Newcastle West in the general election of 1922, a move that marked a significant milestone in his storied career.
A remarkable and driven personality, Ramage, defied the odds and pursued a second term in political office, boldly throwing his hat into the ring for the 1923 general election. His unwavering determination and unrelenting ambition ultimately paid off, as he emerged victorious and secured the highly respected position of Member of Parliament (MP) for the esteemed constituency of Newcastle West.
As the midpoint of his remarkable career approached, Ramage had accomplished a remarkable feat by seamlessly transitioning from a promising newcomer to a seasoned professional in the world of acting, boasting a diverse array of captivating performances that showcased his impressive range and versatility.
He had the extraordinary privilege of gracing the iconic stages of New York and London's prestigious West End, where he honed his craft alongside some of the industry's most esteemed talents. Furthermore, he was afforded the opportunity to join the illustrious Old Vic Company, embarking on a thrilling tour that took him to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, where he shared his remarkable gifts with audiences in a variety of enchanting settings.
As Ramage's professional journey began to take a precipitous turn for the worse, he was ultimately forced to bring a definitive end to his stage career, a decision that would have far-reaching and profound consequences for his personal life.
In the aftermath of this career transition, Ramage found himself suddenly and starkly separated from his wife, Cathleen, with whom he had shared a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure, creating a sense of loss and longing that would linger for years to come.
It is worth noting that Cathleen would go on to live a long and fulfilling life, passing away in the year 1982 at the ripe age of 93, leaving behind a legacy that would be cherished and deeply remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As the curtain drew to a close on his illustrious theatrical career, Ramage had the privilege of embodying an eclectic array of characters, each one a shining exemplar of his remarkable thespian talents. Among his most unforgettable performances was his portrayal of Crown Counsel in the cinematic masterpiece Kind Hearts and Coronets, a role that would forever be seared into the collective consciousness of those fortunate enough to have borne witness to it. In this iconic film, Ramage masterfully breathed life into the character of Crown Counsel, delivering a withering cross-examination of the enigmatic and multifaceted Louis Mazzini, a performance that would leave an indelible mark on the memories of all who had the privilege of witnessing it.
Cecil Beresford Ramage, a renowned and esteemed individual, departed this mortal coil on February 22nd, 1988, at the remarkable age of ninety-three. This significant event marked the passing of the last remaining survivor of the sixty-four distinguished former Members of Parliament who had the privilege of serving in the 1924 parliament, a testament to his remarkable longevity and a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of human existence. What's more, Ramage outlived his time in parliamentary service by an astonishing sixty-three years, a feat that speaks volumes about his remarkable vitality, resilience, and ability to thrive in the face of adversity.
