Mary Ragland

On January 16, 1949 two little bright-eyed girls were born (twins) to the union of the deceased David L. and Fannie Mae McKinney. At an early age she united with Christ embracing her faith joining the Shady Grove Baptist Church where she sang joyfully in the children's choir and served faithfully until her health began to decline. Mary's passion for learning, especially her love of English, fostered her talent for poetry and writing, qualities that she cherished throughout her life. As a graduate of Ophelia S. Hill High School in 1968 within the Talladega County School System, she carried her education into a fulfilling career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, dedicated to caring for others until her retirement. Her spirit thrived in moments with family and friends, whether it was thrifting, sharing a delicious meal, or praising the Lord through church and gospel singings. Known for her vivacious dance moves that could rival the greats, her joy for life was contagious, and her laughter will echo in our memories forever. On this 77-year heartfelt journey, Mary was blessed with her soulmate, Mr. George Ragland, and the pride of a mother's heart, her wonderful son, Timothy Undrell McKinney, and later, the joy of a daughter-in-law, Debra. On Friday afternoon, April 24, 2026 Mrs. Mary Alice McKinney Ragland answered her Master's call saying "Well Done My Good and Faithful Servant" as he entered those pearly gates of the heavenly realm. Welcoming her with opened arms were her devoted husband, Mr. George Ragland, parents, Mr. and Mrs. David L. McKinney, five sisters, Esther, Ruth, Lequertha, Edna, and Flora, three brothers, Rufus, David, Jr., and William, five brothers-in-law, Aaron, A.C., Edward Lee, Ollis, and Johnny. Mary was a beacon of love and kindness, illuminating the lives of all who knew her As we reflect on her remarkable life, we remember a woman who was a mother, a sister, a friend, and a guiding light within her community. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will be forever be remembered by her beloved son, Timothy Undrell (Debra) McKinney of Scottsboro, Alabama; three dear sisters whom she holds deep in her heart, Mrs. Barbara Dark of Talladega, Alabama, Mrs. Betty Lane, and Mrs. Lillie Mae Picket (that favorite twin) of Cleveland, Ohio; adorable grandchildren, Mr. Te'jon Unrell McKinney, Mr. Tyrell Richardson, Te'auna B. McKinney, Jowanna Ragland, Melvina Colquiti, Britney Ragland, Charlene Bullard, Devina Ragland, Trey Ragland, Stephanie Cunningham, April, Allison, De'angela, Pamela, and Allison; great-grandchild, Onyx Undrell McKinney, two very special nieces, Mrs. Nellie (Michael) Ellis and Maltricka McKinney; oh, and so many dear friends, including these five devoted classmates, Mrs. Gaynell Powell, Ms. Geraldine Williams, Ms. Joyce Williams, Mrs. Lucille Shields, and Dorothy Borden; and a wealth of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who will keep her memories etched in their hearts forever. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, let us celebrate her life, recall the joyful days, and find comfort in the legacy of love she leaves behind. May her memory continue to inspire us to dance with joy, sing with enthusiasm, and care deeply for one another, just as she did.

Tributes

Mary Ragland

January 16, 1949 - April 24, 2026