Obituary published on Legacy.com by United Funeral Service, Inc. on Dec. 8, 2025.
Jerry Lee Ragsdale left this world peacefully on December 7, 2025, at his residence in
Blue Springs, MS. Born on September 7, 1953, in
New Albany, MS, Jerry was a man whose kindness radiated and whose talents were as varied as they were impressive. Jerry's journey through life was marked by the love he held for his family, his faith, and the simple pleasures of life that he found in the beauty of creation.
Jerry's devotion to his family was unwavering. His wife of 50 years, Patty Browning Ragsdale, was the love of his life. Together, they raised two daughters, Amanda Jones (Brian) and Heather Fernandez (Manuel), who reflected the light of their father's love and integrity. Jerry was a proud grandfather to Steven Ragsdale, Alison Fernandez (Xa'Zavier), Marissa Jones, Xochitl Fernandez, Jessica Ragsdale (Kemper), Denver Fernandez, and Madison Ragsdale, and he was overjoyed to be a great-grandfather to Jaxtyn Luke Ragsdale, River Matthew Ragdale, Salem Elizabeth Ragsdale, and Noey Jones. His affection for his family was boundless and ever-present.
He was a loving brother to Sheila Lessell (James) and Vicki Clark (Owen), and a supportive sibling to his brothers, Dewayne (Beth) and Roger (Theresa). Preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Denver Ragsdale and Ruby Frances Ragsdale, Jerry carried on the values of kinship and compassion they instilled in him.
Jerry spent his professional years at Master-Bilt, where he retired after a dedication that was a testament to his strong work ethic and amiable nature. His involvement in various associations was marked by a spirit of collaboration and enthusiasm. His friends and colleagues remember him not just for his dependability and skill but also for the warmth and sincerity he brought to every interaction.
A true craftsman, Jerry's hands were rarely still. His drawings were abundant and will remain cherished artifacts for his family, a legacy of his creative soul. Woodworking and metal working were more than hobbies; they were expressions of Jerry's meticulous nature and his joy in making things of lasting beauty and utility. Those who knew him will likely recall the serene focus on his face as he turned raw materials into treasures.
The great outdoors was Jerry's sanctuary, a place where he found both solace and adventure. Fishing was a pastime that combined his love for quiet reflection with the thrill of the catch. A man who enjoyed mowing and being amidst the tranquil sounds of nature, Jerry embodied a spirit that sought harmony in the world around him.
A steadfast Christian, Jerry's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He navigated life's challenges with a belief in a higher purpose and an unwavering trust in the path laid before him.
A visitation will be held at United Funeral Service on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until funeral service time at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Andrew Ledbetter will officiate. Burial will be at Community Cemetery in Union County.
Pallbearers will be Brian Jones, Jose Fernandez, Chris Morris, Kevin Lessell, Jeromy Ragsdale, Tracy Ragsdale, Steven Ragsdale and Denver Fernandez.
United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry, please visit our floral store.