Thomas Gary Ragsdale

COMPASSIONATE TENDER HEARTED GENEROUS GIVER FUN LOVING LAUGHTER STAUNCH REPUBLICAN! Gary ascended into Heaven late Friday evening, January 29 at UMMC after a brief illness. He was born in Paragould, Arkansas on October 14, 1953, to proud parents, Jerry and Reba Ragsdale. As an only child, he was surrounded by a host of family--wonderful grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, all living very close by. To them, he was more like a "cousin-brother." At age 10, his family moved to Jackson. Gary quickly became active in church activities and many of his youth group have remained very close friends. He was a self-taught bass guitar player and often accompanied his mother at the piano and his father leading congregational singing at Southside Assembly of God. He attended Peeples Jr. High and played on the basketball team, then Provine High School where he played trombone in the marching band. A graduate of Wingfield High Class of '71, he later attended Lee College in Tennessee to further his musical studies. There his passion for Old Testament history deepened and he always followed world events as they relate to biblical history. His passions were music, sports (especially the Razorbacks), weather, politics, pets, and family gatherings. Gary spent 5 years in Nashville and on the road doing studio back up with many different artists. After returning to Jackson in 1976, he continued to sing and play with several church trios and quartets, including "Legacy" Quartet. He also played bass guitar with the Southside Choir throughout the years. He soon met Laura and they married in June 1977 which began their "True Love" story/song. As an animal lover, he rescued and brought home many "furry orphans" throughout their 40 years. Gary commented to family that "life with Laura was never dull." Survivors include wife, Laura; parents, Jerry and Reba Ragsdale; aunt, Annelle George; sister-in-law, Earlene Conner; niece, Beth Hewitt (Jamey) and children, Raney and Grayson; nephew, Eric Conner (Eilene) and children, Gavin and Lilo; and cousins and close friends. Gary's parting came much too quickly for his loved ones. However, we know his voice is among those rejoicing and giving praise at the Throne. Funeral : Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at Southside Assembly of God, Fellowship Hall 10 am Visitation with Family 11 am Memorial Sevice followed by Graveside Service at Lakewood Cemetery, Clinton In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Southside Assembly of God Choir 665 Raymond Road, Jackson, MS 39204