Songwriter Joshua Ragsdale Passes
Joshua Ragsdale
Former Lyric Street artist, singer/songwriter Joshua Ragsdale passed away today in a Nashville hospital after battling leukemia. He was 32.
Ragsdale was a staff writer with Sony/ATV. His song, “Ain’t Much Left Of Lovin’ You,” was the recent debut for Mercury Records artist Randy Montana. Along with legendary songwriter Bill Anderson, Ragsdale co-wrote “Papaw’s Sunday Boots,” which Anderson recently released.
“I’ve never seen anybody that remains so positive and so concerned about others through such personal adversity,” said Ragsdale’s manager, Bob Titley. “With every bit of bad news, he’ll react with three minutes of crying and praying, and then it’s back to this positive energy.”
Ragsdale inspired many people to be tested as potential bone marrow donors during his illness, saying that he knew of five people who had been told they were matches for someone because of his encouragement. Visit www.marrow.org to find out more about joining the bone marrow registry.
Journalist Peter Cooper has written a tribute to Joshua Ragsdale in the Tennessean. Read it here.
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May you rest in the arms of your maker Joshua. You were a mighty, valiant warrior. You have run your race with dignity, grace and love for others. Because of you I am a better person. What a legacy!!
So tragic, so young, and seemed to be on his way to good things. God bless him, and his family.
It was an honor to have played music with you Joshua! ~Tyler Lowe
I never thought about testing to be a bone marrow donor until knowing of Joshua’s battle. It was wonderful to see so many people lined up to help. Hopefully some of us can make a difference for someone someday, inspired by Joshua!
I had the pleasure of chatting with this special young writer and could readily see brightness. God bless him.
Damon Medic
Thanks to Keith Anderson telling us of your story at his fan club party, I have registered with the be a match organization in hopes of helping someone to live a long and happy life. I wish it had been soon enough to see if I could’ve helped you. Rest in peace and know that you are being thought of often.