Ralph Emerson Baggett, age 89, went to his heavenly home on July 14, 2013 after a sudden illness surrounded by his loving family. Ralph was born April 30, 1924, in the Magnolia community near Laurel Hill to James A. and Meliana Baggett. Ralph has been a lifelong resident of Crestview. He served his country in the United States Navy during WWII. Soon after returning home from his service, while at a friend’s peanut boil, he met “the prettiest girl there” Edwina Chestnut. She later became his wife of 65 years, and preceded in him in death on April 6, 2012. After working for 2 local businesses, he and his brother E. B. Baggett built the well known hometown business, Baggett’s Garage, where he worked and served the community for 60 plus years. He is also preceded in death by his mother, father, stepfather and 4 brothers.
Ralph is survived by his daughter Joann Pass and husband John and son W.A. Baggett and wife Georgia both of Crestview; Brother Wyndon Castleberry, grandchildren: Stacy and wife Amy, Sean and wife Brandy, Chasity and husband Daniel, Shelby, Stephanie, Chris and wife Maria, Jason and wife Bridget, Seneca and wife Racheal, Kristy and husband Anthony, and Kelly. Also surviving are 20 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandson, and numerous nieces, nephews and a large extended family.
A time of visitation with the family will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 2013, from 6-8 p.m. at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. The funeral service for Ralph will be on Thursday, July 18, 2013, at the Chapel of Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. with burial to follow in the Liveoak Park Memorial Cemetery. In honor of their cherished Papa his grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Special thanks are given to Dr. Mir and staff for many years of dedicated and compassionate care of our father and mother.