by John Berry, for Pompano Park

Pompano Beach, FL — Pompano Park’s iconic handicapper, Ed Ransom, 77, died recently at North West Hospital in Coral Springs, Fla., after a short illness.

He, along with his brother, Ronald, published the popular Kelly’s Tip Sheet for many years.

Edward John Ransom was born in the small town of Walton, N.Y., on Feb. 14, 1941 and was educated in New York before graduating from Duke University in 1965. Having taken an interest in law, he attended Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law, graduating from that private institution in 1969.

Although he worked in various capacities in the field of law, his true passion was working in the equine industry and, indeed, he was able to find work as a timer and photo finish operator at various tracks, enabling him to create the tip sheet which has been a “bible” to many horse racing aficionados.

In a recent interview, he said, “It gives me great satisfaction to pick a winner or two for our visitors at the track. Over the years, I have made countless friends so I wouldn’t trade places with anyone in any other vocation.”

Mr. Ransom is survived by his wife, Glynis; sisters, Marianne McNabb and Beth; and brother, Ronald.

Funeral arrangements are pending.