Reta Ragland

1945 - 2023

CHERRY VALLEY - Mrs. Reta Ragland, a resident of Cherry Valley, departed this life Friday, July 28, 2023, at her home at the age of 77. Reta was born in Harrisburg on Sept. 7, 1945, the daughter of Laborn and Leathel Wallace Vaughn.

Reta was a graduate of Cherry Valley High School, and she furthered her education at Arkansas State University, earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in library science. Reta had a passion for her role as an educator and worked as a teacher and librarian for more than 30 years mostly in the Cross County School District.

She maintained a servant's heart throughout her life which she demonstrated in her work at school, at church and in the community. Mrs. Ragland was a dedicated member of Cherry Valley Baptist Church where she served as organist for many years in addition to assisting in any way needed including teaching Sunday school and vacation Bible school among other activities.

She was instrumental in the creation of the Cherry Valley Food Pantry in 2009 and served there each week for several years until her health no longer allowed.

Mrs. Ragland was an accomplished gardener. She loved cultivating colorful flowers and vegetables, and she was a longtime member of the Master Gardeners, first in Jonesboro and then in Cross County.

Reta had an adventurous spirit; she was a world traveler with most of the United States in her collection as well. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time outdoors and admiring God's creation, especially on her daily walks.

Reta and Walter Ragland were united in marriage on June 20, 1969. The union was blessed with two children, three grandchildren and countless wonderful memories. Reta was the best grandmother and consistently made a point to travel to see her grandchildren.

Reta will forever be remembered for her caring, helping, and selfless character.

Mrs. Ragland was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Laverne Vaughn and Earline Clark.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Walter Ragland of the home; a son, Daniel Ragland and wife Carol of Corning, N.Y.; a daughter, Emily Eaves and husband Artie of Phoenix, Ariz.; a sister, Pauline Nicholson and husband Glenn; three grandchildren, Lauren Elizabeth, Eliot Grace and James Colton; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday at Cherry Valley Baptist Church with Brother Clayton Homewood officiating. Interment will follow in Halk Cemetery at Cherry Valley. Friends may visit at the church fellowship hall following the committal service.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Bob Fowler, Donnie Reddmann, Ronnie Reddmann, Dennis Riley, Dennis Stephens and John Yates.

Memorial donations may be made to Cherry Valley Baptist Church, P.O. Box 72, Cherry Valley 72324, or Cherry Valley Food Pantry, P.O. Box 265, Cherry Valley 72324.

Arrangements are by Thompson-Wilson Funeral Home of Wynne.