Leland E. Ragan, Longtime Barry Resident, Passes Away at 90

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Leland E. Ragan, a 90-year-old resident of Barry, Illinois, passed away on February 11, 2026 at Barry Health Care and Senior Living. Ragan was born in 1935 and was a lifelong farmer and cattle rancher in the area. He was involved with numerous local agricultural organizations and enjoyed outdoor activities like hunting and fishing.

Why it matters

Ragan's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit farming community in Barry, Illinois. As a multi-generational farmer and active community member, Ragan embodied the values and way of life that have defined the region for decades. His death is a loss felt by many in the local area.

The details

Ragan was a graduate of Payson High School and spent his career raising livestock in the Barry area. He was involved with organizations like the Adams County Young Farmers, Adams County Beef Association, Pike County Farm Bureau, and the Adams County Fair Board. In his free time, Ragan enjoyed attending cattle auctions, hunting, fishing, and camping with his late wife Patricia. The couple loved exploring the outdoors together, whether it was elk hunting in Colorado, fishing in Missouri, or cruising their own property in a Gator.

• Leland E. Ragan passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
• Ragan was born on August 28, 1935 in Concord, Illinois.
• Ragan married Patricia LaDonna Edwards on June 17, 1956 in Hull, Illinois. Patricia passed away on September 3, 2011.