Jimmie Earl Ragans

1938 - 2024

Jimmie Earl Ragans, 86, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024.
A Madison native, Jimmie was born on Aug. 24, 1938. Known for his hardworking, determined and caring nature, Jimmie made significant contributions to his community and family. He served as a county commissioner and was the State of Florida's first chairman of Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Ranchers program. He was an active member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where he deepened his faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. He faithfully served as Deacon, Adult Sunday School Teacher and Brotherhood Leader for many years. Jimmie's entrepreneurial spirit was evident as he, along with his wife Latrelle, owned and operated several local businesses including Jimmie's Auto Plaza, Red Onion Grill, Jimmie's Firestone, Jimmie's Auto Port, Ragans Family Campground, Days Inn and Super 8 Motels. Through the years he maintained his cattle farm, which was one of Jimmie's favorite hobbies. In addition to cattle, the farm included poultry houses, pigs, hay, tobacco and various row crops planted throughout the year. Jimmie's dedication extended beyond his community efforts to his service in the Army National Reserves. His educational journey included graduating from Madison High School. 

Jimmie deeply loved and cared for his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Latrelle; their three children: Greg with his wife Margaret Ragans, Cindy with her husband Gary Abbott and Donnie with his wife Lisa Ragans; as well as his siblings and their spouses: Carolyn Coody, Brenda Kosieniak (Perry), Gerald Ragans (Debbie) and Richard Ragans (Cynthia); and sister-in-law, Floyce Ragans. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and their spouses: Heath (Shellie), Jared (Mikayla), Seth (Pazlei), Caleb, Ashley (Corey), Brandon (Rachel), Trent (Amber), Alayna (Evan) and Andrea (Ryan). His legacy continues with his 20 great-grandchildren: Levi, Noah, Lucia, Bentley, Mason, Audrey, Ragan, Carter, Robert, Adaline, Alora, Asher, Etta, Ellis, Grayson, Lillian, Oaklen, Everly, Barrett, Isabella and two more due soon, bringing the total to 22 great-grandchildren that he adored. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordan and Rosette Ragans; brothers, Edgar and Hoyt Ragans; brother-in-law, Jimmy Coody; and sister-in-law Betty Jo Ragans.

The viewing will be held on Friday, Oct. 25, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Oct. 26, at 10 a.m., followed by the burial service and lunch. All arrangements will be held at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, located at 5022 State Rd. 53, in Madison, Fla. The burial services will be held at the nearby Mt. Olive Cemetery. 

Jimmie's commitment to his family, faith and community will be his enduring legacy. While he will be greatly missed here on this earth, his family knows that because of his faith, his home is now in heaven. A special song to Jimmie was "Amazing Grace." His family wants the community to find peace and hope in the "Amazing Grace" that is only found in Jesus.