A Cherished Life

More than ninety-two years ago, God created an earthly angel in the person of Peggy Jean Ragland. Affectionately known as "MaDear," she was born on March 29, 1930, in Alligator, Mississippi, to the late parents of Carrie Johnson and Elgin McGraw. Peggy was raised in Memphis, Tennessee, by her loving maternal grandmother, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Caldwell. As a new dawn peeped into the horizon, Peggy transitioned peacefully in her home on November 22, 2022.

Proverbs 31:10 A wife of noble character who can find?

Peggy was married to the late James Ragland, Sr., and to this union were born four sons and two daughters. As in Proverbs 31, Peggy was a mother who rose early to provide for her family and opened her arms to assist those in need. She was clothed with strength and dignity and lived her life with hope and trust in God. Her signature suits and stylish hats gave a glimpse into her sense of elegance and matriarchy. A Queen Mother, Peggy blessed others with her wisdom and faithful instruction to endure life's challenges. She enjoyed watching her favorite baseball team, the  Atlanta Braves, grew African violets, and baked a "mean" coconut pineapple cake!

Proverbs 31:20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.

Peggy exemplified God's kindness with her helping hands and open arms that generously gave timely hugs capable of healing any soul.  Additionally, her beautiful and genuine smile could make you feel like the most important person in her presence. During her employment outside the home, she provided leadership through her roles as Union Shop Steward at Memphis Linen Supply and Dietary Aide 8: Childcare Aide at Baptist Hospital Lamar Unit.

Peggy knew the power in the name of Jesus and unapologetically proclaimed her Christian life in 1959. She was a faithful member of the Klondike Church of Christ until her passing. Although Peggy lost many loved ones, her motto was "I Won't Corn plain." She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two sisters, Dora Wilson and Dorothy Jean "Miriam" Shaw; two brothers, Frankie Jean McGraw and Charles Johnson; two sons, James Ragland Jr. and Charles Ragland; and one daughter, Peggy Ann Ragland White. Peggy Jean Ragland leaves to cherish her memory one daughter, Rita Ragland; two sons, Donald Ragland, Sr. and Eric Lynn (Marilyn) Ragland Sr., one sister, Carolyn (Freddie) McKinney; thirteen grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Ray of Hope Still Shines.

Viewing for Mrs. Ragland will be on Tuesday, November 29th from 10 - 10:45 a.m. with service to begin at 11am at Klondyke Church Of Christ, 1314 Vollintine Ave, Memphis, Tennessee 38107.

Interment will follow at National Cemetery at 1 p.m., 3568 Townes Ave, Memphis, Tennessee 38122.

Please wear your mask.

Jefferson Mortuary, Inc. has charge:

7788 Church Street

Millington, Tennessee 38053

(901) 872-8800 Phone

(901) 872-4722 Fax

jefferesonmortuary@yhaoo.com