James Darrell Ratliff

1946 — 2017

James Darrell Ratliff, 71, of Louisa, KY passed from life on Earth into the arms of his Heavenly Father on December 30, 2017. H was surrounded by his family and friends.

Darrell was born May 28, 1946 in Lawrence County KY. He was the son of the late Bascomb and Gracie Maynard Ratliff Lewis. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son Phillip Ratliff; five brothers Burlin, Harlin, Edgil, Bernard, and William Chester and a sister Olga Mae Sorenson.

Surviving siblings are Julia Ratliff of Inez, KY, Donalee (Mae) Ratliff of Inez, KY, Roy (Mary) Ratliff of Columbus, OH, Lonnie (Patsy) Ratliff of Inez, KY and Larry (Patty) Ratliff of Columbus, OH.

Darrell was a native of Louisa, KY and a graduate of Meade Memorial High School in Johnson County, KY. Darrell was a retired Columbia Gas Operator. In 1969, the Lord prepared him for his eternal home when he was saved by his Heavenly Father. In 1970, he began the journey in his ministry where he pastored Richardson Chapel for many years and was also instrumental in the creation and building of the Garden of Hope Church of Cherryville. Darrell was the pastor until last year because of his illness. He preached and sang with the Ratliff Family throughout his ministry sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Under his ministry with the blessings of God, he was able to lead many lost souls to Jesus.

Left to mourn the loss of Darrell but to cherish the lasting memories are his loving wife of 50 years, Sharon and their two children Brian (Darla) Ratliff of Louisa, KY and Melinda (Travis) Feltner also of Louisa; his daughter-in-law Jenni Ratliff of Charlotte, NC; and a special son Richard Childers also of Louisa. His pride and joy were his six grandchildren; Haley Ratliff, Joshua Ratliff, Dylan Ratliff, Caden Ratliff, Jackson Feltner, and Kensley Feltner. Darrell had a host of nieces and nephews as well as a multitude of friends he met through his journey of life that will continue to cherish his memory.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday Jan. 3, 2018 at 1:00 pm at the Garden of Hope Church with Elders Bob Messer, Lonnie Ratliff, and David Vanhoose officiating. Burial will follow in the Riverview Memorial Gardens Louisa, KY.

Friends may visit the family on Monday Jan. 1, 2018 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at the Wilson Funeral Home and on Tuesday from 3:00pm to 10:00pm at the Garden of Hope Church and on Wednesday Jan. 2nd at 11:00am until time of services at the church. There will be a church service on Tuesday beginning at 7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Garden of Hope Building Fund, 1000 Grant Street, Louisa, KY 41230.

Care has been entrusted to Wilson Funeral Home.