Mary Ellen (Nutter) Ragsdill

Published 9:28 am Friday, June 28, 2024

Mary Ellen (Nutter) Ragsdill

November 7, 1933 – June 13, 2024

Mary Ellen (Nutter) Ragsdill, 90, peacefully passed away in her home of over 62 years in Medford, Oregon, on June 13, 2024, surrounded by family who lovingly cared for her. Grandson Jeremy Perry spent 11 years creating a joy-filled life for his beloved grandmother to safely remain in her home.

Mary was born on November 7, 1933, in Merlin, Oregon, to William and May Nutter as the youngest of six children. She married Merlin Ragsdill in 1952 and remained married for nearly 60 years until his passing in 2011. She described their relationship as “love at first sight.” For their honeymoon, they traveled the Alcan Highway to Fort Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, where Merlin was stationed during the Korean War. They welcomed their first daughter, Dianna, in 1953 and moved to Eugene, where their daughter, Christie, was born in 1956. In 1959, they moved to Medford and started Central Pump Company, which they ran for over 55 years. Their daughter, Brenda, was born in 1964.

Mary was a dedicated West Main Church of Christ member, volunteering as a Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher, and registration coordinator. She also actively supported her church family and “Women for Columbia/Cascade” Christian College. Mary enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, playing games, camping and traveling. She was skilled at bowling, horseshoes, table tennis and washer pitch. After retirement, she and Merlin traveled to Kauai for wonderful adventures. Mary also made delicious applesauce cakes to everyone’s delight.

Mary’s family and friends will deeply miss her bright smile and contagious laughter. A song service in Mary’s honor will be held at West Main Church of Christ on July 7, 2024, and her remains will be with her husband at Eagle Point National Cemetery. Additional services will be announced later.