Jefferson Ragland

It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we celebrate the life of Jefferson Ragland, born on February 16, 1966, in the United States. Jefferson passed away on September 1, 2017, after a courageous six-month battle with cancer. He was surrounded by the boundless love of his family and the comforting embrace of his faith. Jefferson was a man whose life was marked by a deep commitment to his family, faith, and community. Born in Dodge City, Kansas, he spent his formative years in Missouri and Arkansas, where he developed a love for helping others and a passion for teaching. His journey eventually led him to Alvin, Texas, where he lived with his beloved wife, Janeice Russell Rainer Ragland. Together, they later made their home in the Pasadena/Deer Park area. A devoted member of the Deer Park Baptist Church, Jefferson participated in the God Seekers Bible Study, forming cherished relationships with his fellow congregants. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life, providing strength and solace to him and those around him. Jefferson's legacy is one of generosity, kindness, and love. He had a big heart and was always eager to share his talents with others, especially the younger generation. His ability to teach and inspire is a gift that he passed on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy. He is survived by his loving wife Janeice; his parents, Jim and Margarette Ragland of Arkansas; his mother, Carolyn Williams of Missouri; his brother, John Ragland and wife Nina of Arkansas; his sisters, Deb Ragland-Taylor and husband Allen of Missouri, Sandra Ragland and David of Arkansas, and Keli Wilson of Missouri. Jefferson also leaves behind his cherished children: Todd Rainer and Lisa Combest, Melvin and Tracey Peters, Kenny and Sally Rainer; his grandchildren: John and Kelsey Rainer, Brad and Mari Lewandowski, Bryant and Talitha Arceneaux, Matthew Peters, Nick and Catherine Vassiliou, Patricia Peters and Jon Bittick, Steven Rainer, Brandon Rainer, Samantha Rainer, Katie Rainer and Joseph Gomez; and his adored great-grandchildren: Jason, Dillon, Dakoda, Guinevere, Jarron, Katalaya, Kennedy, William, Braylee, and Austin. His extended family, including many nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, and cousins, also hold his memory dear. Jefferson was predeceased by his beloved wife, Janeice Russell Rainer Ragland, who passed on April 20, 2025. A service to honor Jefferson's life will be held on September 9, 2017, at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church Deer Park. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in tribute to Jefferson's generous spirit. As we reflect on the life of Jefferson Ragland, we find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace with his Savior, Jesus Christ. His enduring legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.