1954
James
2024
James Andrew Ragsdale
December 24, 1954 — April 7, 2024
Greenville, SC
James Andrew Ragsdale, known affectionately as Andy to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2024, at the age of 69, in his hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. Born on December 24, 1954, to the late Frank and Helen Ragsdale, Andy grew up surrounded by the warmth and charm of Southern hospitality, which he carried with him throughout his life.
Andy's journey through life was marked by his enduring love for his wife, Karen Ragsdale, with whom he shared 50 blissful years of marriage. Together, they created a family that became Andy's pride and joy. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Shannon (Travis) Paddie and the late April Ragsdale. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Callen Keech, Kaily Paddie, Zane Ragsdale, and Jesse Paddie, who will remember their grandfather for his kind heart and endless humor.
His life was further enriched by his close-knit family, including his sister Frankie Gambrell and her husband Rick, his brother Sammy Ragsdale, and sister-in-law Gale Keech and her husband Anthony. Nephews Andrew, Todd, Shane, Chris, and Clint, along with niece Pam Luker, were all an integral part of Andy's life, each holding a special place in his heart. Andy's life was a testament to the fact that family is not always determined by blood; many friends became family over the years, sharing in the joy and love that he radiated.
Andy was a proud high school graduate who dedicated many years of his life to his craft as an autobody tech and later as a forklift mechanic. His work was not only a means of livelihood but also a source of pride and accomplishment. His colleagues will remember him for his unwavering dependability and the camaraderie he brought to the workplace.
Music was Andy's love language, a passion that he shared with all who knew him. With a song for every occasion, he had an uncanny ability to uplift spirits and create lasting memories. His love for cars and racing was more than just a hobby; it was a reflection of his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for the finer details in life. The family was everything to Andy, and he instilled this value in his loved ones, creating a legacy of unity and love that will endure for generations.
Those who knew Andy will remember him as the epitome of kindness, a man with a quick wit and a ready smile that could light up any room. He had a knack for making people laugh, ensuring that his presence was a source of joy and comfort.
As we bid farewell to James Andrew Ragsdale, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with love, laughter, and music. He may have left this world, but his spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who loved him. Andy's memory will be cherished and his stories retold, keeping the essence of who he was alive for years to come.
We take solace in the knowledge that Andy's journey was one of fulfillment and happiness, and while we mourn his passing, we also honor the incredible impact he made on all our lives. He will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created will be comforting, guiding us through the days ahead.
Andy's journey through life was marked by his enduring love for his wife, Karen Ragsdale, with whom he shared 50 blissful years of marriage. Together, they created a family that became Andy's pride and joy. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Shannon (Travis) Paddie and the late April Ragsdale. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Callen Keech, Kaily Paddie, Zane Ragsdale, and Jesse Paddie, who will remember their grandfather for his kind heart and endless humor.
His life was further enriched by his close-knit family, including his sister Frankie Gambrell and her husband Rick, his brother Sammy Ragsdale, and sister-in-law Gale Keech and her husband Anthony. Nephews Andrew, Todd, Shane, Chris, and Clint, along with niece Pam Luker, were all an integral part of Andy's life, each holding a special place in his heart. Andy's life was a testament to the fact that family is not always determined by blood; many friends became family over the years, sharing in the joy and love that he radiated.
Andy was a proud high school graduate who dedicated many years of his life to his craft as an autobody tech and later as a forklift mechanic. His work was not only a means of livelihood but also a source of pride and accomplishment. His colleagues will remember him for his unwavering dependability and the camaraderie he brought to the workplace.
Music was Andy's love language, a passion that he shared with all who knew him. With a song for every occasion, he had an uncanny ability to uplift spirits and create lasting memories. His love for cars and racing was more than just a hobby; it was a reflection of his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for the finer details in life. The family was everything to Andy, and he instilled this value in his loved ones, creating a legacy of unity and love that will endure for generations.
Those who knew Andy will remember him as the epitome of kindness, a man with a quick wit and a ready smile that could light up any room. He had a knack for making people laugh, ensuring that his presence was a source of joy and comfort.
As we bid farewell to James Andrew Ragsdale, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with love, laughter, and music. He may have left this world, but his spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who loved him. Andy's memory will be cherished and his stories retold, keeping the essence of who he was alive for years to come.
We take solace in the knowledge that Andy's journey was one of fulfillment and happiness, and while we mourn his passing, we also honor the incredible impact he made on all our lives. He will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created will be comforting, guiding us through the days ahead.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James Andrew Ragsdale, please visit our flower store.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Visitation
Saturday, April 13, 2024
1:00 - 2:00 pm (Eastern time)
New Life Baptist Church
Celebration of Life
Saturday, April 13, 2024
2:00 - 3:00 pm (Eastern time)
New Life Baptist Church
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