Early Monday morning, September 3, 2018, Thelma W. Ragland moved from this Earth to her new home with the Lord Jesus whom she served with all of her heart for 97 years. Born in Arlington, Texas to WI Willis and Alma Switzer Willis on September 4, 1920, Thelma grew up as a member of the Greatest Generation. She attended Arlington schools, graduating from Arlington High School in 1938, attending Arlington College (now UTA), and earning her Bachelor's Degree from North Texas State Teachers College (NTSU). During World War II, Thelma worked as a draftsman for General Dynamics in Fort Worth, Texas. In 1948 she married the love of her life Verlon L. Ragland, and followed him as he moved from Army post to Army post. In 1950, while she waited for Verlon, their daughter, Bonnie, was born. Then Thelma and Bonnie began a new chapter in the saga of Thelma Ragland. After Verlon returned from Korea in 1951, the family continued to follow the Army. When Thelma decided to go to work, Verlon insisted that she use her teaching degree which began her career as an educator. After Verlon retired from the Army, the family moved to Abilene, Texas where Thelma worked for Abilene ISD until her retirement in 1984. She claimed that Abilene ISD hired her because she understood the pressures faced by military children. In 1966, she earned her Master's Degree from Hardin Simmons University. In 1971, Thelma became the Reading Specialist for Abilene ISD, working to improve the reading skills of the district. After retirement, Thelma continued to serve her community through her church, the Good Sam Travel Club, and various other organizations. She also spent time watching her grandchildren grow up to become parents.
Thelma W. Ragland is survived by her daughter, Bonnie and Husband Charles Campbell; 3 grandsons, Lynn Campbell, Terry Campbell and wife Patricia, and Joe Campbell and wife Amanda; 5 great grandchildren, Bailey, Becca, Maddie, Grace, Swayde, and Tess; 3 great-great grandchildren, Hunter, Brinkley, and Gatlin; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11am on Friday, September 7, 2018 at Grace Baptist Church in Potosi. The family will receive friends for a visitation from 6 to 8pm Thursday evening at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy 277 South.
May the memory of her life of service and encouragement bring joy, hope, and peace to her many friends and loving family.
In lieu of flowers, please send your memorials to Grace Baptist Church, general fund.
You may view and sign the guestbook at www.elliotthamilfuneralhomes.com.
