Last updated on: November 27, 2025
Alvin Azell Ragland is the name of Meghan Markle’s maternal grandfather. He played a very important role in the family life of Meghan. His story does include strong family roots, rich culture, and a life full of challenges and love. Though he lived a simple life, his legacy goes on through his daughter Doria Ragland and his granddaughter Meghan.Meghan Markle
Quick Facts About Alvin Azell Ragland
| Full Name | Alvin Azell Ragland |
| Birthdate | 1929 |
| Age (at Death) | 82 years |
| Occupation | Antiques dealer, flea market merchant |
| Husband/Wife | Jeanette Johnson (first wife) Ava Burrow (second wife) |
| Died | 12 March 2011 |
| Parents | Father: Steve Ragland Mother: Lois Russell |
| Siblings | Paternal half-brother: Alvin Joffrey Ragland |
| Children | Daughter: Doria Loyce Ragland Also step/half-children: Joseph “JJ” Johnson and Saundra Johnson |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
| Grandchildren | Meghan, Duchess of Sussex |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California |
Early Life and Background
Alvin Azell Ragland was born in 1929, although some records report the birth to have occurred in 1930. His birthplace is sometimes listed as Ohio and sometimes Tennessee. His parents were Steve Ragland and Lois Russell. His ancestry includes African Americans tracing back many generations in the United States.
Alvin was born in the most challenging moments in American history. His ancestors passed through slavery and later fought for equal rights. This, of course, formed his identity and gave him pride in his heritage.
Family and Marriage
Alvin married Jeanette Johnson, a nurse. Later they had their daughter, Doria Loyce Ragland, Meghan Markle’s mother. After some time, the family moved to Los Angeles, California. But Alvin and Jeanette eventually separated.
Later, in 1983, Alvin married a kindergarten teacher by the name of Ava Burrow. She was closer in age to Doria, but this marriage also ended in divorce. Alvin’s family included other children through his and Jeanette’s earlier relationships. Doria did have two older half-siblings, named Joseph “JJ” Johnson and Saundra Johnson, along with a younger paternal half-brother, Alvin Joffrey Ragland.
Family was always important for Alvin. Meghan Markle was close to her grandfather and spent time with him when she was young.
Career and Personality
Alvin was an antiques dealer from Los Angeles, selling second-hand designer shoes, furniture, and specialty pieces at flea markets and local shops. His job brought him into contact with many people every day.
Friends and relatives recall him as a cheerful, energetic man who always liked to keep himself classy with nice clothes and an afro. They say he enjoyed life, loved talking much, and sometimes liked to joke around. He faced struggles but always found a way to keep going. His personality made him memorable to many who knew him.
Heritage and Roots
The Ragland family line is powerful and inspiring. Alvin’s ancestors included Richard “Dick” Ragland, born into slavery in 1792. His son Stephen Ragland lived to see freedom after the Civil War. Their family name came from William Ragland, a slaveowner who came from England.
This history shows the long journey from hardship to hope. Today, Meghan Markle continues that story on a global stage. Alvin’s life is part of that powerful path.
READ ALSO: Meghan Markle Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Death and Legacy
In 2011, Alvin passed away at the age of 82. He died after having fallen when he tripped over his dog’s leash and sustained a head injury. His death was ruled an accident.
After his death, Doria inherited his house in the View Park–Windsor Hills neighborhood of California. It remains a very special place for the Ragland family. Alvin did not live long enough to see Meghan marry Prince Harry. Many family members said that he would have been proud and amazed to see his granddaughter join the British Royal Family.
