Martha Ragland

Martha Jean Cook Ragland was welcomed to this world on June 8, 1932 when she was born to the union of Ernest Cook and Ollie Burton Cook in Talladega, Alabama. She was one of ten children. From her humble beginnings in a large family, she embraced a deep devotion to family, faith, and service. Mrs. Ragland accepted Christ as her personal Savior at a young age and united with New Maryland Missionary Baptist Church. Later in life she continued worshiping the Lord and joined Tabernacle of Praise, PFC. She was educated in the Talladega County School System; however, despite her limited education, Mrs. Ragland's legacy is marked by her decades-long dedication as a server at Alabama Industries for the Deaf and Blind, where her selfless acts of kindness touched countless lives. Her warmth and compassion extended beyond the workplace, shaping her into the beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt that so many admired. A woman of strong convictions and firm determination, Mrs. Ragland found comfort in her marriage to her beloved husband, Mr. Mason Ragland, Sr., who departed this walk of life six weeks prior. They shared over seven decades of love, laughter, and song, enriching the lives of all who knew them. Mrs. Ragland's joy in singing gospel music with her family and friends, coupled with her passion for fishing and bargain hunting, reflected her vibrant spirit and zest for life. Their union brought forth five loving children. Her dedication to her family was very solid. She rejoiced in the love and support she received from her husband and children, which brought her immeasurable happiness. Earlier in life, Mrs. Ragland got a thrill out of carrying water and she could pick cotton faster than you could speak. Mrs. Ragland known to many as "Martha Jean" loved to be in charge, but if you knew her well enough, you know she was also a very firm disciplinarian. Martha Jean Cook Ragland, a cherished pillar of her community, known for her unwavering faith, boundless love, and infectious sense of humor, peacefully transitioned from this world on Tuesday evening, September 24, 2024, while in the comfort of her home. Mrs. Ragland was the epitome of grace and resilience throughout her 92 years. In her passing, Mrs. Ragland joins her beloved husband, Mr. Mason Ragland, Sr., parents, Ernest and Ollie Cook, sons, Thomas Ragland and Mason Ragland, Jr., brothers, George Ernest Cook, Frank Cook, William L. Cook, Bobby Cook, and Albert Cook, sisters, Ola Mae Perkins and Annie Swain, and grandsons, Thomas Ragland, Jr. and Michael Jackson, Jr., in everlasting peace. Her indomitable spirit will continue to resonate through the generations she leaves behind, ensuring that her memory remains a beacon of hope and love for all who were touched by her grace. Mrs. Ragland's spirit will be eternally remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her 92-year legacy carries on in the hearts of her children; son, Milton (Shirley) Ragland; daughters, Linda (Michael) Jackson and Shelia (William, Jr.) Borden; grandchildren, Syleethia Ragland, Linda (Michael) Andrews, Nicole (Ivory Joe) Hamilton, Timothy (Brittany) Garrett, Tressica (Lewis) Ragland, Terrance Jackson, Mason Ragland, III, Tiffany Ragland, Detrich Ragland, Darious (D'Jondra) Borden, and Cameron (Shanita) Borden; two brothers, John Cook and Ollice Cook; one sister, Bernice Garrett; and a multitude of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. As we honor the life and legacy of our matriarch, Mrs. Martha Ragland, we are reminded of her steadfast devotion to her children and grandchildren, who carry forward her legacy of love and resilience. She will forever reside in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. May we find comfort in the enduring legacy of Mrs. Martha Jean Cook Ragland, a woman whose life was a testament to strength, faith, and boundless love. As we come together to celebrate her remarkable journey, let us honor her memory with reverence, compassion, and an enduring sense of gratitude for the light she brought into our lives.

Tributes

Martha Ragland

June 8, 1932 - September 24, 2024