Cover for William H. Ragsdale's Obituary

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

William H.

William H. Ragsdale Profile Photo

Ragsdale

Dec 13, 1942 — Aug 7, 2026

Somerdale

Funeral Services

Viewing

August
22

Saturday

10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)

Funeral Service

August
22

Saturday

Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)

Burial

Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery

240 North Tuckahoe Road, Monroe, NJ 08094

Obituary

William H. Ragsdale, lovingly known as "Bill" or "Rags," passed away peacefully on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at Cooper University Hospital at the age of 83.

Born on December 13, 1942, in Trenton, New Jersey, Bill was the beloved son of Herman and Elizabeth Ragsdale. He was raised in Pitman, New Jersey, where he graduated from Pitman High School. He attended Glassboro State University (now Rowan University) for two years before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge, Bill returned home to New Jersey and began a successful career with Delaware Valley Wholesale Florist (DVWF), where his dedication and leadership led to his promotion as company manager. He also generously served his community by providing notary services whenever needed.

Bill was known for his warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering willingness to help others. Friends and family often described him as someone who could always be counted on-a true friend whose loyalty and compassion touched everyone he met.

One of Bill's greatest passions was photography, especially wedding photography, where he found joy in preserving life's most cherished moments. He also loved taking photographs of family and friends, creating lasting memories for those he loved. A devoted sports fan, Bill enjoyed watching football and basketball games with his beloved wife, Pat, and spending time with close friends.

The greatest blessing of Bill's life was his marriage to the love of his life, Patricia "Pat" Ragsdale. Together they shared 58 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They enjoyed cruising, exploring the country by train and car, and creating treasured memories together. They also found great joy in spending time with their goddaughter, Ashley Young of Trenton, New Jersey.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Elizabeth Ragsdale; and Lillian Thompson; his brother, Robert Smith (Margaret); and other beloved family members, Marvin Sallie, and Louis, Emily, and Ruth Thompson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 58 years, Patricia M. of Somerdale, New Jersey; his siblings, Clarence (Isabel), Curtis (Patricia), Carolyn (Lucy), and Lillian; his brothers-in-law, Houston and Vincent (Margaret) of Zebulon, North Carolina; his cherished goddaughter, Ashley Young of Trenton, New Jersey; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness and friendship.

Bill's legacy is one of love, generosity, and steadfast friendship. He lived a life marked by service, devotion to his family, and genuine care for others. His warm spirit, generous heart, and an unforgettable smile will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. “Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear."

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, at the Farnelli Funeral Home, 504 N. Main Street, Williamstown, NJ. Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in the Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown. 

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