Mr. Hoyt Lonnie Ragans, age 85, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022, in Perry, Fla. He was born in Madison County, Fla., to Rosette Sheppard and Gordon Ashley Ragans on Aug. 22, 1936.
His working career was spent helping others as the manager of the Buckeye Employees Federal Credit Union, in Perry, Fla., for 28 years. He then founded Ragans Ace Hardware, Inc. in 1989. He and Betty Jo raised their family in Perry, as members of Lakeside Baptist Church, where he was also a deacon. Later in life, he and Betty Jo retired to their long-time dream of life on the family farm, which they fondly referred to as “The Ole’ Home Place.” There, he enjoyed his days as a pine tree farmer.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty Jo McLane Ragans; two daughters, Pam McCranie (Ralph) of Alachua, Fla., and Kathy Escoto. (Moe) of Smyrna, Ga. and one son, Keith Ragans (Marilyn) of Perry, Fla.
He was blessed with eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as well as their long-time caregiver and friend, Shernita (Nita) Solomon.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing and loved the outdoors. He especially enjoyed hunting with his son and family gatherings on the farm.
A funeral service was held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 6, at Beggs Funeral Home, Madison Chapel. Visitation was held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chapel. Interment followed at Oak Ridge Cemetery, in Madison.
Beggs Funeral Home, Madison Chapel assisted the family. You may leave your condolences on the website at www.beggsfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to https://www.acvillage.net/support-acv-ministry/.