Tracy James Ruggles' Obituary
Tracy James Ruggles, born August 8, 1957, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to William Lee Ruggles and Catharine Mary Brown, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is survived by his loving wife, three children, eight grandchildren, and five siblings.
Tracy was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Anita Ruggles, for 45 years. He was a man whose life reflected his deep and unwavering faith. A true disciple of Christ, he lived with kindness, compassion, and a servant’s heart, always among the first to step forward and help those in need.
He faithfully served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an experience that deeply shaped his life. While living and serving in Peru, Tracy developed a deep love for the people there. His dedication to sharing the gospel never wavered, and he spent many years supporting and encouraging local missionaries.
As a young boy, Tracy loved exploring his grandparents' property in Kansas City. It was there that his adventurous spirit was ignited and his love for the outdoors began. Throughout his youth, he also found great joy in athletics, playing baseball, football, wrestling, and pole vaulting for the track team.
Tracy found great joy and peace in the simple beauty of nature. He loved working in his garden and could often be found fishing at his pond, a place where he created lasting memories. He took great pride in teaching each of his grandchildren how to fish and always extended an open invitation to anyone who wished to join him.
Alongside his twin brother, Tim, Tracy embarked on the adventure of building a Christmas tree farm— an endeavor filled with hard work, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From constructing a giant dome greenhouse to planting hundreds of trees and even surviving the occasional mishap, like a lawnmower catching fire, their shared efforts were a testament to his adventurous spirit and hardworking nature.
A devoted father of three, Tracy worked steadfastly to provide for his family and was deeply involved in his children’s lives. Whether serving as a Scout leader, coaching baseball, or serving as band booster president, he gave his time wholeheartedly. To his eight grandchildren, he was a beloved and playful “Grampster,” always ready with love, laughter, and time spent together.
Tracy’s legacy is one of faith, service, love, and unwavering dedication to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and forever remembered for the light he brought into the lives of others.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Floral Haven Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1701 N. Hickory Ave., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Clarehouse or to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund.
The service will be livestreamed for those friends and family members who are unable to make it to the service in person. Please click the following link to access the livestream: https://zoom.us/j/3962300755?pwd=qb0hblVZqEabW7XrQRoE8d1FaIoa9l.1&omn=95070675126
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