Emma Jean Ragsdale

Emma Jean Ragsdale, age 77 of Columbia, passed away April 28, 2014 at NHC Hillview in Columbia, Tennessee.

Emma Jean was born May 15, 1936 in Santa Fe to the late James F. Hill and Mary Elizabeth Wilson. She was a high school graduate from Santa Fe High School in 1954. On November 22, 1956 she married the love of her life, the late James A. Ragsdale, and together they shared forty years of marriage. Most affectionately known as Emmer, she spent hardworking days making a home for her family and closest friends. Emma Jean also was a faithful member of South Gate Church of Christ and the ladies Bible class.

Survivors include her son: Randy (Janiece) Ragsdale of Williamsport, Donna (Stephen) Altobell of Mt. Pleasant, Johnny Ragsdale of Columbia, Carla Ragsdale of Columbia; grandchildren: Robin (J.P.) Patterson, Jonathan (Nancy) Cothran, Matthew Altobell, Jacob Altobell; six great grandchildren; siblings: Katie (Simon) Eastep, Clara (Everette) Griggs, Carolyn Baucom, John (Marcella) Hill; and a host of nieces and nephews. Emma Jean is preceded in death by her siblings Mary Francis South, Jenny Lee Williams and James Hill.

Family will gather with friends Wednesday, April 30, 2014 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia. Funeral services will be conducted in the Chapel of Williams Funeral Home Thursday, May 1, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Joe Macer, Bro. Brian Gregory, and Monty Gilliam officiating. Interment will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Jonathan Cothran, Matthew Altobell, Jacob Altobell, James Morton, Gary McPeak, Gil Ellis and nephews will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be her classmates from the Santa Fe High School graduating Class of 1954, members of South Gate Church of Christ, and the members of the Ladies Bible Class.

The family would also like to thank Monty and Laura Gilliam for their kindness and care.