Mr. James E. Ratcliff, age 89, of Douglas and former long-time resident of Alexandria, Virginia, transitioned from his earthly life on March 15, 2018 at his home in Douglas, GA. Mr. Ratcliff was born May 28, 1929 and raised in Narrows, Virgina, son to the late Wirt and Nellie Ratcliff.
He was a concrete and brick contractor in Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC for several decades and an avid flower gardener. He was a member of Reality Gospel Church, serving as a deacon, teacher and Sunday School Superintendent for many years. With other family members he also sang in a quarter and was a song leader in the church.
Mr. Ratcliff was preceded in death by: his wife of 65 years, Maymie Sutherland Ratcliff; brother, Marvin Ratcliff; sisters: Mamie Sue Turner and Virginia Clark Hazen; and a brother, Barry Ratcliff.
He is survived by: daughter, LaDonna Ratcliff of Douglas, GA; sons: James Richard Ratcliff (Tara) of Rocky Mount, Virginia and David Eric Ratcliff (Betty) of Woodbridge, Virginia: grandchildren: Tracie Ratcliff, Kyle Ratcliff, LeAnn Ratcliff Bradbury (Chris), Jenna Ratcliff Crews (Geoff), James Ryan Charles (Melissa), Tyler Charles (Maggie); great grandchildren: Ella Bradbury, Colin Bradbury, Gage Moore and Emily Charles; several nieces and nephews and his furry little friend Andy, with whom he enjoyed taking long walks.
Arrangements made by Sims Funeral Home and the funeral service will be held at Jefferson Funeral Chapel in Alexandria, Virginia on March 24th at 11:30 a.m. Internment at Mount Comfort in Alexandria, Virginia.
A special thanks to Bethany Hospice for their care and support.