Jo Anne Ragsdale's Obituary
Jo Anne Ragsdale, 89, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at Woodhaven Court in Albemarle, NC. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Fairview Memorial Park, officiated by Pastor Ben Floyd.
Born on March 3, 1936, to the late Thomas William Ward and Velna Davis Ward, Jo Anne grew up in a home full of purpose and community—literally on the grounds of East Albemarle Elementary School, where her father served as principal. That early exposure to education shaped the course of her life and inspired a career dedicated to teaching and nurturing young minds.
Jo Anne graduated from Albemarle High School in 1954 and went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Pfeiffer College in 1958. She taught in several Stanly County schools—Endy, Stanfield, and ultimately East Albemarle Elementary, where she retired after a fulfilling career teaching 4th through 6th grades. She had an incredible memory for the names and faces of every student she taught and brought energy and joy to her classroom, even during PE time, where she preferred to join in the games rather than watch from the sidelines.
Jo Anne was a woman of deep faith and commitment to her church community. She played the organ and taught Sunday School at Parkway Methodist in Albemarle and later became a devoted member of Main Street United Methodist Church in 1978, where she served faithfully on various committees for decades.
She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, gardening, sewing, reading, and reconnecting with former students. Her sense of humor and playful spirit were best seen when she was teasing her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly.
Jo Anne is survived by her sons, Curtis G. Ragsdale Jr. and wife Stacy of Albemarle, and Christopher T. Ragsdale and wife Lisa of Sylva, NC; grandchildren Brandon Ragsdale and wife Alexis of Albemarle, and Madison Ubaldo and husband Manuel of Albemarle; and one great-grandchild, Wade, who brought a new light to her later years.
Her life was one of quiet strength, devoted service, and heartfelt connections. She leaves behind a legacy of learning, laughter, and love.
Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Ragsdale family.
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