Charles David Ragsdale

Charles David Ragsdale, Sr. was born May 9, 1922 and passed January 24, 2015. He was preceded in death by his wife Dottie Smitherman Ragsdale; his son Charles David Ragsdale, Jr.; parents James Ellis and Elizabeth Gaddy Ragsdale; sisters Mamie Lou Ragsdale and Nellie Ragsdale Cato; brothers Clint Ragsdale and Willie Ragsdale. He is survived by daughters Debbie (Bob) Kelley and Sandra Ragsdale; grandchildren Katherine (Jason) Deaver and Adam (Neyda) Bozeman; one great-grandchild Rebecca Leigh Bozeman; siblings Johnny Ragsdale, Ray (Betty) Ragsdale, Alice Faye Aaron, Mollie (Rayford) Cagle, and Mae Ragsdale Patterson.

Charles was born in Sylacauga, AL, and grew up in Jasper, AL. As a young adult, he moved with his brother, Clint, to Montgomery, AL where he lived out the remainder of his life. In 1942, Charles enlisted in the United States Army. During his years of service, he fought in WWII, earned three Bronze Stars and was honorably discharged in 1946. After returning to his hometown, he met and married his wife, Dottie, May 6, 1950. Charles enjoyed raising his three children and working on vehicles of all types, large and small. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with family and continued his mechanic work for fun.

The family would like to remember the fabulous and loving sitters who helped with his care: Nancy Rawls, Sybil and George Vickers, Bruce Terry, Mary Gouley, Shirley Mapp.

Charles was a special soul who left a lasting impression on all he met. He was beloved by family and admired by friends. His smile and joy were contagious and he lived life courageous. We look forward to rejoicing with him when we all get to heaven.