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BORN
1931
DIED
2026
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Jean Ragsdale Obituary
March 20, 1931 - February 22, 2026
Raleigh, North Carolina - Jean Dees Ragsdale, 94, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
Jean was born on March 20, 1931, the daughter of the late Gladys Broughton Dees and Frank Dees and stepfather Tom Dees. She grew up in Pikeville, North Carolina and graduated from Pikeville High School in 1949. After receiving her degree in Nursing from Duke University, she married William "Bill" Ragsdale in 1955. After several Naval relocations, Bill and Jean settled in Raleigh in 1964.
After staying home to raise four children, Jean went back to work at WakeMed Hospital in Raleigh as Head Nurse in the Neonatal Nursery. After retiring, Jean enjoyed relaxing at Atlantic Beach, annual trips to Disney World with her children and six granddaughters and hosting family gatherings, where everyone enjoyed her sweet tea and chicken-n-dumplings.
Jean was a true southern belle, radiating warmth and grace. Her love for babies and children (especially her grandchildren) was always on display with her big heart and kind soul.
In addition to her parents, Jean is predeceased by her husband of 67 years, William Lemuel Ragsdale, daughter Teresa Ragsdale and twin sisters, Gladys Dees Lanier and Carolyn Dees Brown.
Jean is survived by sons, William Ragsdale Jr. and Frank Ragsdale (Lori), daughter Anne Ragsdale Corey (Sammy); granddaughters, Kaitlyn Corey Duke (Jake), Megan Corey, Hannah Ragsdale, Laiken Ragsdale, Malerie Ragsdale, Sarah Ragsdale; great-granddaughter Kinsley Duke and great-grandson Landon Duke.
Special thanks to Lisa Klein, Shon Lofton and Karen Rabon for providing companionship and care to our beloved mom.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh.
A family graveside service will be held at a later date in Goldsboro, NC. Please visit www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.
Bright Funeral Home is serving the Ragsdale family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries
Josephine Bowerman
February 28, 2026
I am so blessed to have many childhood memories filled with Mrs
Ragsdale's gentle welcoming smile and her happy home. She would greet her children, myself and other neighborhood kids with delicious warm fresh baked cookies and a safe place to laugh, play and be with friends. I grateful to have known her. Blessings and peace be with her family.
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kari spencer
February 27, 2026
I am so sorry for the loss of Ms. Jean. She will be greatly missed.
-Kari
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