Norma G. Ragland

1928 - 2022

Ledyard - Norma G. (Williams) Ragland, 94, passed away March 30, 2022. She was born in Salem, Mass., March 9, 1928. Norma was raised in a military family (both Army and Navy) and she was also a Navy wife. She traveled extensively in the U.S. and abroad and became a resident of Ledyard in 1964 when her husband Royce retired.

In her youth, Norma worked as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone and also learned how to fly an airplane. Many people will remember her from Rosie's Diner in Groton, where she worked as a waitress on the night shift for almost 30 years.

Norma loved her family, reading, cats, wild animals, music, dancing, and the ocean. She was a hardworking and compassionate person who often put others before herself.

Norma was predeceased by her first baby boy; her husband of 41 years Royce who died in 1989; and son-in-law Stephen Dodge. She is survived by her brother James Ragland of Rio Rancho, N.M.; and her five children, Saundra Ragland of Holiday, Fla., Patricia (Robert) Pia of Mystic, Deborah (Raymond) Watson of Mystic, Barbara Dodge of Mystic, and James Ragland of Ledyard. In addition, she leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. A Graveside Service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 8, at the CT State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.