WEST FRANKFORT – Denise Jeann’e Ragsdale, age 67, of West Frankfort, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond Heights, Missouri.
Denise was born on May 11, 1958, in Hammond, Indiana, the daughter of Sylvester Dean Steinberger and Carolyn Louise (Schimpf) Steinberger. She married Alan Ragsdale, who preceded her in death on May 10, 1998.
Her working career included factory labor, and she was also a well-known dog breeder in Southern Illinois. People from across the region—and even from Missouri—sought out her Yorkshire Terrier puppies. She was also involved in dog agility training.
Denise attended the Monroe Street Church of God until its closure.
She enjoyed spending time with her family.
Survivors include her three children:
– Carrie Seagle Holly of West Frankfort, Illinois
– Jason Seagle of Carterville, Illinois
– Ross Ragsdale of West Frankfort, Illinois
Grandchildren: Machaela Holly, Lucas Holly, Herschel Seagle, Peyton Seagle, Emma Seagle, Noah Seagle, and Alexis Ragsdale
Great-grandchildren: Meracia Labrie and Mathayus Labrie
Siblings:
– Sylvester Dean Steinberger III and wife Brandie of Benton, Illinois
– Walter Steinberger of Benton, Illinois
– Aaron Steinberger and wife Heather of West Frankfort, Illinois
She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and two special friends, Joseph Holly and David Rice.
Denise was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alan; two sisters, Susan Steinberger and Camille Steinberger; a great-grandson, Madeious Labrie; and her beloved Nana, Bertha Schimpf.
In accordance with her wishes, she will be cremated.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are entrusted to Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.
To leave online condolences for the family or share memories of Denise, please visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.
