Dorothy Riggs Ragsdale's Obituary
Dorothy Riggs Ragsdale, an unassuming educator and a person of remarkable integrity, passed away on March 31, 2026, at the age of 86, after enduring a difficult illness. She lived a life defined by purpose, faith, and generosity, leaving a lasting impact on family, friends, and the broader community.
Born on October 1, 1939, in Port Arthur, Texas, she demonstrated curiosity from an early age. Her journey started at Lamar University, where she was a proud member of the Kappa Delta sorority. It continued 20 years later, culminating in a BA from the University of Houston. Over the course of a rewarding 20-year career in Pearland ISD, Dorothy earned widespread respect for her dedication to educating the youth of Pearland. She was especially known for holding students accountable and ensuring they were set up for success beyond the classroom.
Beyond professional success, Dorothy was deeply committed to service and community at large. She believed strongly in giving back and devoted her time to community involvement. She served as past president and state representative of the Houston Area Twins Association, was a member of the Southwick Lions Club of Pearland and the Lioness Club of Pearland, served as a board member for the Brazoria County Advocacy Center philanthropy, and tutored many adults in reading at the Pearland Literacy Center. She also gave unwavering support to the Pearland 100 Club and Augusta Cemetery Association. While she was very involved in the community, she also showed unassuming support of others by caring when a family member or friend was ill or needed a ride to an appointment.
Above all else, Dorothy cherished family. She was a devoted spouse known for kindness and humor. Other favorite moments included traveling, playing bridge, attending the annual Lewis/Riggs Thanksgiving, gardening (picking up sticks), or attending Houston Oilers games.
Dorothy is survived by daughter, Sally (Donnie); sons, Charles and Brian (Cindy); one and only grandson, Joe; brother-in-law, Bob; nieces, Claudia, Julie, Susan, Andrea, and Sarah Beth; and nephews, David, Phil, Doug, Jay; and family nurse, Shelia. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her parents, Tillman and Bertha; her big brothers, Tillman and Harold (Beau); her beloved sister, Ruth; and her nieces, Lesley and Lindsey. Though deeply missed, Dorothy’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the values she exemplified.
A celebration of life will be held on April 18, 2026, at Clayton Funeral Home in Pearland, beginning at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Pearland 100 Club, reflecting Dorothy’s commitment to faith, family, friends, and community.
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