Dedra Deneé Ragland, of Denton, Texas, passed away on July 6, 2026, at the age of 59.
She was born on January 20, 1967, to Archie Ragland and Linda (Dansby) Irving in Dallas, Texas. Dedra was a woman of intelligence, determination, and quiet strength whose life reflected a deep commitment to family and serving others. From an early age, her parents instilled in her the value of education and hard work, qualities that would guide her throughout her life. Dedra was united with Golden Gate Baptist Church where she was baptized at an early age.
Dedra attended St. John XXIII School and J. N. Ervin Elementary School in Dallas, Texas. Dedra enrolled in the High School for Health Professions, a magnet school in North Dallas, with a desire to become a pediatrician. She excelled in high school achieving the honor of Valedictorian of her senior class.
A proud graduate of the High School for Health Professions, Dedra continued her academic journey at The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her bachelor's degree in architecture and her Master's in Community and Regional Planning. Her passion for community development led her to public service, where she dedicated her career to serving in several municipal government positions. She began her career as a planner for the cities of Victoria, Texas; Wichita, Kansas; Denton, Texas; and Fort Worth, Texas. Through years of faithful service, she ultimately served as Planning Director and a Certified Planner, helping shape communities with vision, integrity and professionalism. Her thoughtful leadership and commitment to excellence earned the respect of colleagues and all who had the privilege of serving alongside her. She served as Planning Director at the City of Decatur, where she retired in January 2025.
Outside of her career, Dedra embraced life's simple joys. She loved traveling and discovering new places and trying new cuisine. She found happiness in learning new dishes to prepare for family and friends at holiday gatherings and rarely passed up the opportunity to enjoy a good movie or television series. Music was a constant companion throughout her life, providing both comfort and celebration. She served as the Dansby Family Reunion Secretary, communicating family events and announcements to family members.
Above all, Dedra's faith remained the foundation of her life. As a devoted member of Saint Mark Missionary Baptist Church in McKinney, Texas, she found strength, purpose, and fellowship through her church family. She served on the Nurses Guild and as a Youth Sunday School Teacher. She served in these positions until she experienced health issues and could no longer be an active member. Her faith shaped the kindness, compassion, and grace she extended to those around her.
Dedra will be remembered for her warm heart, thoughtful spirit, unwavering dedication, and the lasting impact she made both personally and professionally. She was a loving daughter, devoted sister, treasured friend, and a source of encouragement to many.
Though her presence will be deeply missed, the memories she created, the lives she influenced, and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of service, faith, and quiet generosity will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have been part of her life.
Dedra leaves behind to celebrate and cherish her precious memory, her mother, Linda Irving of McKinney, TX; sister, Cassandra Ragland of Austin, TX; brother, Yul Ragland of Euless, TX; sister, Andrea Ragland of Cedar Hill, TX; brother, Archie (Delores) Ragland, Jr. of Clinton, MD; sister, Anita (Gregory) Odum of Karnack, TX; brother, Anthony (Carlas) Ragland of Waxahachie, TX; brother, Arnie (Barbara) Ragland of Pasadena, CA; sister, Brandin Ragland of Dallas, TX; sister, Debra (Glen) Martin of Marshall, TX; special aunt, Emmett (Earnest) Calhoun of Chadds Ford, PA; special aunt Patricia Washington of Arlington, TX; special aunt Alice Dansby of Bear, DE; special aunt Currie B. Burton of Arlington, TX; and a host of beloved family members and friends. Dedra is preceded in death by her father, Archie Ragland; sister, Anthia Ragland; and brother, Derric Henderson.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Saint Mark Missionary Baptist Church, 1308 Wilcox Street, McKinney, Texas 75069.
A committal service will be held at 12:00 noon, Friday, July 17, 2026, at Dansby Cemetery in Cushing, Texas.