Toad Ragsdale

S.V. Pullen Ragsdale, affectionately known as "Toad," 81, of Marmaduke, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 30, 2025. He was born on March 18, 1944, in Dell, Arkansas, the son of the late Steven V. and Elsie Ragsdale.

A dedicated farmer, Toad cherished his roots in agriculture, sharing many fulfilling years working the land alongside his father. Over the course of his varied career, he also worked as a factory worker and truck driver, yet his love for farming remained his most treasured vocation. Throughout his life, he cultivated rice, corn, and soybeans, embodying the spirit of hard work that he was known for. Those who knew him often remarked that "you couldn't keep him down," as he was always industrious, whether tending to his crops or taking joy in the great outdoors.

In addition to his agricultural pursuits, Toad enjoyed fishing and hunting, spending countless hours surrounded by nature. He was a passionate music lover who frequently attended Bluegrass performances at the Collins Theater, reveling in the rich culture of his community. His faith was an important part of his life; he was baptized at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Pocahontas.

Toad was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Barbara, who passed in 2009. He is survived by his beloved spouse, Letha Ragsdale; his son, Chris Ragsdale of Marmaduke; his daughter, Rhonda Row of Marmaduke; his sister, Tacie Huffman of Paragould; his grandson, Jacob Row of Marmaduke; his nephew, Steven "Booger" Ragsdale of Marmaduke; four step children; thirteen step grandchildren; and twenty step great grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation that will take place on Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Heath Funeral Home. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be conducted, also at Heath Funeral Home, starting at 1:00 PM. Toad will be laid to rest at Jones Ridge Cemetery in Delaplaine, where he will remain eternally connected to the land he so dearly loved.

In honoring Toad's unwavering spirit and the legacy he leaves behind, we invite those who knew him to join us in celebrating his remarkable life and the enduring joy he brought to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.