Contact: Central Church

711 N. Second Street
Lufkin, Texas

Joe Ragan

Background:
Joe was born in Fort Worth, Texas. He graduated from Texas Wesleyan College in 1977 with a BS in Psychology and from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1978 with a M.Ed. in counseling. He and Suzy met in the fourth grade, dated during high school, and married in Saginaw, Texas in 1974. Suzy also graduated from Stephen F. Austin and teaches at Lufkin High School.

Career:
Following graduation from SFA, Joe was employed at Lufkin State School in administration and remained in that position for over 16 years. He taught part-time at Angelina College for seven years and accepted a full time position in 1995 where he was Director of the Liberal Arts Division until his retirement in May, 2007.  Joe continues to teach Psychology at the college as an adjunct professor.  Joe and his family have been very involved in many church activities: We Care Campaign, Bible Bowl, Camp Red Oak Springs youth camp, Vacation Bible School and the bus ministry. Joe has provided free Christian counseling for members of the church and others referred by the membership. He has preached and led singing at the Alto, Wells, Bald Hill, Diboll and Central churches when called upon. Joe served as Deacon of benevolence at Central and has taught Bible classes to all age groups. Suzy has taught Bible classes for 20 years and has served as a great help-mate to Joe in the various ministries of the church. Joe was selected as an Elder at Central in March 2004.

 Family:
Joe and Suzy have two children: Amy and Wesley. Amy is married to Steve Donahoe, and they are faithful members at Central. Wesley still lives at home. Suzy is an encouraging partner and a strong Christian with great vision for the future spiritual growth of Central.

Hobbies:
Fishing and Bluegrass music.

Vision for Central?
To be a congregation that strengthens and grows the kingdom of God by edifying the members, increasing their knowledge of God's word, and by demonstrating the love of Christ in the community.