Ronald (Harith) Malcolm Flagg, a devoted husband, father, mentor, and lifelong advocate for youth, passed away on January 18, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. He was 82 years old. Born on June 14, 1943, in New York City to Doris and Lacey Pleasant Flagg, Ron’s life was marked by a deep commitment to education, public service, and community engagement. He pursued higher education with determination and excellence, graduating from Virginia State University, completing his MA in Organizational Development from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Ron built a distinguished career with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services—formerly known as the NYS Division for Youth—where he rose through the ranks to serve asAssociate Commissioner of Program Services. His work reflected his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of children and families across New York State.

A respected leader and mentor within the agency, Ron guided both youth and staff with compassion and integrity. In his personal life, Ron shared a loving marriage of 44 years with his wife Tana Fileccia-Flagg. Together they raised two sons: Marco Harith Flagg and Guy Antony Flagg. Ron was an active presence in their lives—never missing Marco’s swim meets or Guy’s soccer tournaments. His devotion to family and friends extended beyond his immediate household; he was a caring uncle to Nyles Flagg and maintained close bonds with his Gill family first and second cousins. Ron’s passion for jazz music was well known among those who knew him. As an enthusiast and active member of the Savannah Jazz Association, he found joy in both listening to and supporting this vibrant art form.

He also enjoyed spending time on the golf course. Beyond his professional accomplishments and personal interests, Ron remained deeply involved in civic life in Albany, NY and Savannah. In Savannah, he served on city committees and was a board member of the 100 Foundation—a nonprofit organization that provides programming for youth aspiring to legal careers. His advocacy for children continued throughout his retirement as he worked tirelessly to uplift young people in his community, serving as a Juvenile Court Volunteer advocating for youth placed into care.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents Doris and Lacey Pleasant Flagg; his brother Lacey Flagg Jr.; and cousin Gregory Gill. A Celebration of Life, Georgia.honoring Ronald (Harith) Malcolm Flagg will be held in Savannah, His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched—as a public servant, mentor, husband, father, relative, colleague, and friend. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. The family requests donations be sent to Savannah Hospice