With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Roy Allen Ragsdale, who left us peacefully on October 7, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on January 16, 1942, in Springfield, Missouri, to Edwin and Dorothy Ragsdale, Roy was a devoted, Christian man whose steady faith, gentle spirit, and quick sense of humor brought warmth and laughter to everyone around him.

Roy spent many years serving as a dedicated clerk for the railroad, where his hard work was matched by his love for storytelling and making lifelong friends. Above all, Roy was a wonderful father who took great pride in raising his children in the church, instilling in them strong values and unconditional love. He was exceptional with kids and made a truly fantastic grandfather—always full of humor, patience, and warmth.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Ragsdale and Dorothy Ragsdale, and his daughter, Joy Diann Hoskins.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Fay Ragsdale; his daughter Jill Templeton, and her mother, Carol Allen. He is also survived by Fay’s children, to whom he was a devoted father to: Allen, Christi, Lael, and Gregory Woodworth. As a grandfather, Roy took immense pride in watching Ryan, Reece, Tara, JC, Joshua, Elisabeth, Brandon, Noah, Alexa, Jacob, Tanner, Turner, and Chase grow, often delighted by their tales and accomplishments. The bond he shared with his family was one of love, laughter, and shared memories that will live on in their hearts.

A true cowboy at heart, Roy had a lifelong passion for all things Western. He was happiest surrounded by the simple beauty of country life—tending to his cattle, riding horses, listening to classic country music, and settling in for a good John Wayne movie or Western film. His heart for animals was huge; over the years, his home was always filled with the love of many dogs. Roy also had an eye for classic cars, keeping a special place in his heart for them.

For Roy, horseback riding was more than just a hobby—it was a way of life. Raising registered Quarter Horses together with Fay brought them immense joy, and nothing gave them greater peace than hitting the trail with their beloved horses, Angel and Firefly. They traveled with Angel and Firefly and explored the rugged beauty of Tennessee, New Mexico, Texas, and South Dakota. Some of their fondest moments were spent fully immersed in the outdoors: riding along the Continental Divide in Yellowstone National Park, and riding mules into the Grand Canyon to spend an unforgettable night beneath the stars. For Roy, time spent in the saddle surrounded by nature with Fay was time truly well spent.

In honoring Roy’s life, we invite friends and family to celebrate his memory through a gathering and funeral services officiated by Pastor John Inman, that will take place on Monday, October 12, 2026, beginning at 3:00 pm at Greenlawn Funeral Home North. Family and friends are welcome to visit from 2:00–3:00 pm prior to the service. Roy will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens in Springfield following the service. We hope you will join us as we reflect on the beautiful moments we shared with Roy, remembering the laughter, faith, warmth, and love he brought into our lives.