Verlon "Dwight" Ringgold entered his heavenly home on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the age of 79. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service of Sand Springs.

A memorial service to celebrate Dwight's life will be 2 p.m., Friday, September 20, at Olivet Baptist Church.

Verlon Dwight Ringgold, born on July 6, 1945, in Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and affectionately known as Dwight. He was the son of Verlon Ringgold and Bernice Louise (Hicks) Rau. Dwight's life was a testament to dedication, service, and a profound love for his family, friends, and community.

Dwight's journey began in Gans, Oklahoma, where he graduated from Gans High School in 1963. An achiever from the start, he was proudly ranked among the top 10 in his graduating class, a testament to his commitment to excellence, even among his 16 classmates. During his time at Gans High School, he was known for his prowess in sports, participating in basketball, baseball, and track, specializing in the mile.

After high school, Dwight pursued higher education at Conners State College in Warner and Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. However, his life took a significant turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Korea for 16 months as part of the 38th Artillery Brigade and was ultimately discharged in 1970, having served his country with honor and valor.

In 1975, Dwight embarked on a new path, founding Ringgold Bail Bonds in Tulsa. This venture became a significant part of his life, serving the community for several decades. He worked closely with his nephew, Jim Ringgold, forming a strong bond, and alongside Holly Rosser. His dedication and commitment to this work were well-known, and he made a difference in many lives.

Dwight had a deep passion for sports, especially for the University of Oklahoma and the Cardinals. He also enjoyed fishing, attended the Tulsa Dirt Track Races, and proudly sponsored his son's car for many years. In his younger days, he raced dirt bikes and was an active member of Sand Springs American Legion Billie A Hall Post 17, VFW Post 577 in Tulsa, and Olivet Baptist Church.

Apart from his sporting interests, Dwight had a musical side and was known to play the guitar. He cherished lively games of wahoo with family and friends and was always ready to entertain with his music.

On June 6, 1993, Dwight married his beloved wife, Karen, in Tulsa, although they had been together for nine years before this union. His family was his greatest joy, and he was preceded in death by his parents, Verlon Ringgold and Bernice Louise (Hicks) Rau.

Dwight leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory, including his wife, Karen, and their children: Monica Angelique Ringgold and Joe Berry of Sand Springs, Dallas Todd Ringgold and wife, Pamela Jean of Sapulpa, Jennifer Donelle Ringgold and Chris Garcia of Ft. Smith, and Amy Lynn Helt and Virgil Wilson of Preston. He is also survived by his siblings: Larry Del Ringgold and wife, Bonnie of Gans, Allan Rau of Gans, Stan Rau and wife, Dacie of Ft. Smith, AR, and Tamera Gardner and husband, Chad of Mertzon, TX.

Dwight's legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Braden Ringgold and Adrianna Shuttleworth, Stormy Knight and wife, Brandi, Breanna Blair and husband, Joe, Todd Knight and Robyn Ballard, Treyce Dahlem and Cassie Ward, and Landon Helt. His great-grandchildren, Paisley, Payton, Pyper, Everleigh, Wilder, Koviee, Harper, Anthony and one on the way, will carry his memory forward.

Dwight's warm heart, his unwavering commitment to his family, and his deep love for his community will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love that will endure for generations to come.