KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Elvin Roy Ragsdale, the 82-year-old father of Knox County Mayor Mike Ragsdale, died early Saturday morning, according to a news release from Mayor Ragsdale's office.

Elvin Ragsdale, a veteran known by friends as Roy, died at the Ben Atchley Veterans Home. He spent most of his life in Cleveland, Tenn.

He served as a Sergeant in the 278th Regimental Combat Team of the United States Army, and worked as a bookkeeper for various Cleveland car dealerships after completing his military service. He was a Bradley County Commissioner for 16 years.

At his death, Elvin Ragsdale had been married to his wife Virginia for 60 years.

"Mom could not have had a more loving husband and I could not have had a more loving Dad," Mayor Ragsdale said in a written statement.

In addition to his wife and son, Mr. Ragsdale is survived by a grandson, David Ragsdale, now of New York City. Arrangements are pending at this time.

(Information from Mayor Ragsdale's office)