Patricia "Patti" Thomas Ragusa

Born 8/18/1944 in Baton Rouge – Died peacefully in her home, 6/6/2025. Patti attended Dufroc ES in Baton Rouge and Graduated from Baton Rouge High School. Patti was the First in her Family to earn a College Degree and Graduated LSU in 4 years with a bachelor’s in education. Patti Worked throughout College to pay for books, supplies and tuition. Her parents, Elias and Lucille Thomas, helped with tuition, as well.

When her father had a debilitating stroke, Patti and her mother sold Avon make-up, door-to-door, to help support the family of 7. Patti went on a Blind-Date with Ben P Ragusa, Jr, arranged by mutual friends. She eventually married Ben on July 30, 1966 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, by her cousin, Fr. Nick Martrain. Patti enjoyed Teaching 4th Grade at Wyandot Elementary in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. Ben and Patti bought a Yellow 1966 Mustang with a 289 and 4-speed for her to travel to and from work. Ben had to get her a seat cushion so she could reach the clutch.

After Jeffrey was born, Patti Found her True Calling as a Full-Time Mother. Her passion for Education continued as she helped her children excel in scholastics, leading them both to College Degrees. She also was active in their schools and even was the CCD Director at St. Thomas More School in Baton Rouge during the 1970’s. Patti also tutored students who needed help and was instrumental in many children achieving High School Diplomas and GED’s.

After more than 20-years in Atlanta, Patti and Ben returned to Baton Rouge to start a new business and take care of Patti’s ailing mother. For almost 30 years, old friendships were re-kindled and new ones forged while her family grew around her in Baton Rouge. The past 3 decades have seen the birth of five grandchildren with two marriages and a flourishing business family, as well.

Patti is preceded in death by her parents Elias Thomas, Lucille Martrain Thomas, and her Brother Kenneth Wayne Thomas. The Joy of Her Life was Family! Husband: Ben, of almost 59 years. Children: Jeffrey (56) and Stephanie (54) Grandchildren: Madeline (28), Elizabeth (28), Jeffrey Jr (27), Tricia (25), & Megan (23) Siblings: Kenneth (deceased) Gail, E.J., and Darla. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM followed by a committal service at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.

An Elegant Lady Has Found Her Reward with Her Lord and The Blessed Mother.