Billy H. Ragan

Billy was born in Barry, Texas to Braxton and Opal Ragan on April 29th 1926. He was raised in Barry, Texas and after graduating from high school he attended Navarro Junior College. It was there that he met and fell in love with his wife, Shirley Anderson, the mother of Janet and Bill Ragan.

Later, Billy Ragan joined the Air Force and after faithfully serving his country he attended Baylor University to complete his undergraduate degree. Soon afterward, the family moved to Houston, Texas where Billy attended South Texas College of Law, earning a Doctor of Jurisprudence. He would later become a founding partner in the law firm of Ragan, Weaver and Dearman.

Billy first entered public service in 1958 by representing District B as a Houston City Councilman serving one term until 1961.

Billy was later appointed to Harris County Criminal Court #1 and dutifully served on the bench for 26 years. Billy had a great reputation as a constitutional judge. He was widely considered one of the fairest judges by both prosecutors and defense attorneys alike.

Billy was passionate about several things. His favorite charity was The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. He served long enough to earn the prestigious title of Lifetime Member.

Billy had an affinity for thoroughbred horse racing and was very supportive of bringing horse racing to Texas. He owned up to 20 thoroughbred horses over his lifetime.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, his son Bill Ragan, his wife Wanda (Mickie), and his three sisters, Jane Taylor, Joyce Fields and Diane Kirk.

Billy is survived by his daughter, Janet Ragan; his granddaughter Nicole McAdams and her husband Greg; his granddaughter Ashley Williamson; his great grandchildren Braxton and Blake McAdams and Charlotte Williamson; and stepchildren Casey and David Foster.

A celebration of Billy’s life will be held Monday, November 23, 2015 at 2 PM in the chapel of Heights Funeral Home. A private family interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to The American Heart Association on behalf of Judge Billy H. Ragan.