Dr. William "Bill" Ray Baggett, age 90, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025. Born on February 19, 1935, in Cullman County, Alabama, he was the son of the late Elbert Stephen Baggett and Audie Britton King Baggett.

After graduating from Cullman High School, Bill attended Howard College (now Samford University) in Birmingham, where he met his future wife, Martha Lee Jackson. During his time at Howard, he was elected to several leadership roles, including President of the Student Body, and was voted "Friendliest," a distinction that would follow him throughout his life. After graduation, Bill and Lee were married in January 1958 in Carrollton, Georgia.

A lifelong advocate for the transformative power of education, Bill earned his Doctorate of Education from the University of Alabama and devoted his professional career to higher learning. As a college administrator/Dean of Students at Georgia State University, the University of North Florida, Valdosta State University, Stetson University, and Florida State University, he shaped the academic journeys of countless students. "Dean" Baggett's unwavering commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and institutional excellence left a lasting imprint on every campus he served.

Bill was a devoted member of Dunwoody Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as Minister with Senior Adults for 17 years following his academic retirement. He also shared his love of worship through music, serving as Minister of Music at several metro Atlanta churches for more than 20 years. Bill further extended his ministry as Educational Director at The Bridge, an organization dedicated to supporting youth through education, preparation, and opportunity. He lived out his faith with humility, compassion, and service.

Bill loved people and was known for his remarkable ability to "never meet a stranger." He had an extraordinary gift for making every person feel welcomed and valued—whether through a simple conversation, an encouraging word, or his ever-present wit. His warmth created instant connections that blossomed into lifelong friendships. Bill was also a devoted University of Alabama football fan, famous for his joyful "Roll Tide!" and rarely missing a Saturday cheering on his beloved Crimson Tide.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Lee Jackson Baggett; his son, Jeff (Elise) Baggett of Milton, Georgia; his daughter, Beth Baggett (Tom) Williams of Chattanooga, Tennessee; five cherished grandchildren: Sarah Baggett (Opie) Bowen, Jennifer Williams (Jordan) Clark, Caitlin Baggett (Grant) Hagedorn, Michael (Hannah) Williams, and William (Gracie) Baggett; and six great-grandchildren: Elijah, Whitley, William, Maggie, Nico, and Hampton. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Avis Baggett Strickland, Amy Baggett Willoughby, and Hudson Baggett.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill's honor to the Samaritan Class, Dunwoody Baptist Church or to Samford University.

A private family graveside and inurnment service will be held at Carrollton City Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Chapel at Dunwoody Baptist Church on Saturday, December 6 at 4:00 pm with visitation before the service at 3:00 pm.

Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.almonfuneralhome.com

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.