Dr. Donald J. Raggio

Donald J. Raggio, a beloved psychologist and cherished member of the Jackson community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the age of 81. He was the youngest of five children born October 27, 1943, in Hazlehurst, MS, to Joseph James Raggio and Grace Augusta Hanley.

Don excelled in athletics during his youth, serving as both a pitcher on the high school baseball team and a quarterback on the football team. He continued his education at Mississippi State University and the University of Southern Mississippi.

For 45 years, Don served his community as a professor of pediatrics at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, specializing in child development. He dedicated his life to studying learning differences and developmental disorders in children, developing the Raggio Evaluation of Attention Deficit Disorder (READD), and publishing numerous research papers. His compassionate care and expertise touched the lives of countless patients and families. His commitment to education and mentorship earned him several awards throughout his distinguished career.

Don was passionate about giving back, taking pride in his fundraising efforts for Children's of Mississippi, where he made a meaningful difference in children's healthcare across the state.

Don was happily married to Rebecca (Becky) Allen Raggio for more than 30 years before she passed away on June 4, 2006. Together, they lovingly raised two sons, Chris and Neil, and many family pets along the way, including a spring spaniel, Molly, who Don was sure was the most beautiful dog to have ever lived.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed traveling, golfing, and fishing. In his later years, he looked forward to his weekly men's bible study group at Beagle Bagel and cherished time with his girlfriend, Dorothy Scattone, exploring their mutual love of travel and cooking together.

Don's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and a profound commitment to improving the lives of others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the many patients whose lives he touched.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca Raggio; parents, Joseph and Grace Raggio; brother Charles Raggio; and sisters, Grace Dunn, Evelyn Raggio, and Margaret Ann Awad. He is survived by his sons, Chris Raggio and Neil Raggio (Elizabeth); his grandsons, Grayson Raggio and Stephen Raggio; his longtime companion Dorothy Scattone; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to Parkway Funeral Home at 1161 Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland, MS, on Monday, May 19, 2025. Visitation will be at 11 AM, followed by a service at 1 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Children's Hospital in Don's honor.