Smith's Funeral Home | Wadesboro, NC
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Obituary For DR. FANNIE LEE RATLIFF
DR. FANNIE LEE RATLIFF
Dr. Fannie Lee Ratliff was an ambassador for education and an example of excellence! She was born August 28, 1955, to the late Robert Geames Ratliff, Sr., and Eugenia Vauss Ratliff in Anson County, North Carolina. She departed this earthly life for her Heavenly Home April 23, 2021, at Atrium Health-Anson, surrounded by her daughter Jessica, siblings, nieces, and nephews. Dr. Ratliff confessed Christ at an early age and worshipped at Forestville A.M.E. Zion Church, before joining Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Lilesville. During her tenure at Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church, she proudly led the annual black history program and co-led the annual graduation program. Dr. Ratliff was a 1973 graduate of Bowman High School, member of the National Honor Society, and a “Candy Striper”. Nelson Mandela stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” She was ambitious to use education to improve the lives of everyone she encountered, and a regular activity would easily become a teachable moment. Accordingly, she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Community Health Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, a certification in Educational Administration and Supervision from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Fayetteville State University. Dr. Ratliff gracefully served in the following roles: Adjunct instructor, program coordinator, health education coordinator, state health consultant, training and professional development consultant, counselor, lead counselor, assistant principal, director of guidance and counseling and principal. Dr. Ratliff worked with the following agencies: South Piedmont Community College, Anson Regional Medical Services, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Carolina Healthcare Systems-Community Health Institute, and Anson County Schools. Dr. Ratliff gave her resources to the following organizations: March of Dimes, St. Jude’s, Salvation Army, American Cancer Society, Healthy Ansonians 2000, Civitan International, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Linkon Chapter No. 564 Order of the Eastern Star Prince Hall Affiliate of Lilesville, the National Association for the University of Women, and the Sandy Pines North Carolina Chapter of Top Teens of America. Dr. Ratliff earned the following recognitions: Governor’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service, National Association of the University Women Doctoral Fellowship, SWORD of Hope Volunteer of the Year, and Five Degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star. Dr. Ratliff enjoyed the following: movie time with her daughter, eating at her Sister Beverly’s home, spending time with nieces and nephews, going to the beach, reading romance novels, and cruising. Dr. Ratliff was preceded in death by her Father-Robert Geames Ratliff, Sr., Mother- Eugenia Vauss Ratliff, Brother-Bobby Ratliff, Sister-Doris Tyson, the Father of her beloved Jessica- Jesse Ingram, and Burnis Sturdivant. Dr. Fannie Lee Ratliff leaves to cherish her loving memories: her daughter, Jessica Ingram of the home; sisters, Alberta Cooper (Wayne) of Wadesboro, NC, Beverly Johnson (Mitchell) and Brenda Bennet (Bobby) of Lilesville, NC, and Wayne Medley of Wadesboro, NC; brothers, Geames Junius (Margaret) Ratliff of Rockingham, Booker Richardson (Linda), Nashville, Tennessee, Gary Kendall of Wadesboro, NC, Larry Kendall of Monroe, NC; one aunt, Beulah Vauss Brooks of Pinehurst, NC; Special Friend Mr. James Harris of Asheboro, NC and a host of friends, cousins, students, and community members.
The Services to Honor the Life, Accomplishments and Legacy of Dr. Ratliff will be on Saturday, May 1, 2021, 2:00pm, in the Chapel of Smith's Funeral Home, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina. Interment will be in the Family Plot of the Forestville AME Zion Church Cemetery, Lilesville, North Carolina.
The public viewing for Dr. Ratliff will be on Friday, April 30, 2021 from 3:30-6:30pm at Smith's Funeral Home, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina.
Friends and family are invited to express your sympathy via donating to the Dr. Fannie Lee Ratliff Scholarship Fund: Dr. Fannie Lee Ratliff Scholarship Fund c/o HOLLA 229 East Main Street, Morven, NC 28119 (drop off donations) Post Office Box 88, Wadesboro, NC 28170 (donations sent via US mail) Phone: 704-851-3144 holla@wadesboro.com
Guest Book
WE LOVE YOU, Mark & Janet
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WE LOVE YOU,
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Dr. Ratliff will be greatly missed. She was my guidance counselor during my high school years. She always encouraged me and had a smile on her face. Later, she became a colleague and would often call me when we needed to discuss certain students or programs. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel. Prayers to the family.
- Gennifer Jones
It is difficult to actually believe she is gone! A true light to all she came in contact with! That sweet smile and personality to go with it will not be forgotten! Prayers go out to her family.
- Debbie Seigler
I am still in shock. Fannie was a true dear friend and trying to wrap my head around this loss. Love you, Dr. Morris
- Morris Brooks Jr
My heart is broken and heavy with grief at the loss of Dr. Fannie Ratliff...'Oh that my head were a spring of water, and my eyes were a fountain of tears.......Jeremiah 9:1 Dr. Ratliff was a gift, a rare and precious gem, a priceless mother to her delightful daughter Jessica, and an invaluable asset to both her family and to her community. I've known Fannie since her High School years and thru her years in college as well. She spent time with myself, and her uncle's and cousins when we all resided in North Newark New Jersey. She visited us in Forida, and also here in Oak Park Il. with her nephew Brian and Jessica.She had an absolutely wonderful personality,her character was blameless, just an outstanding personality. Everyone who knew her, loved and admired her for her many talents,dedication and work ethic in the North Carolina Educational System. I will miss the sound of her voice and her laughter during our many long, and at times 'hilarious' conversations. I loved Fannie, and the thought that I will never hear her voice again, on this side of heaven, pierces me thru, time and time again! Our last conversation was on Sunday, April 18, 2021, and I'm so very grateful that she and I were able to share a 'good laugh' despite the pain she was experiencing. Now Fannie, my Dearly-Beloved, Precious, Marvelous niece, enjoy your peaceful rest. You've accomplished what God called you to do!!! May God comfort and console you Jessica, Bel, Bert,Gene and and all of the family in its' entirety, is my prayer! Sincerely, your Aunt, Constance Cannon precious gem
- Constance Cannon
My heart is broken and heavy with grief at the loss of Dr. Fannie Ratliff...'Oh that my head were a spring of water, and my eyes were a fountain of tears.......Jeremiah 9:1 Dr. Ratliff was a gift, a rare and precious gem, a priceless mother to her delightful daughter Jessica, and an invaluable asset to both her family and to her community. I've known Fannie since her High School years and thru her years in college as well. She spent time with myself, and her uncle's and cousins when we all resided in North Newark New Jersey. She visited us in Forida, and also here in Oak Park Il. with her nephew Brian and Jessica.She had an absolutely wonderful personality,her character was blameless, just an outstanding personality. Everyone who knew her, loved and admired her for her many talents,dedication and work ethic in the North Carolina Educational System. I will miss the sound of her voice and her laughter during our many long, and at times 'hilarious' conversations. I loved Fannie, and the thought that I will never hear her voice again, on this side of heaven, pierces me thru, time and time again! Our last conversation was on Sunday, April 18, 2021, and I'm so very grateful that she and I were able to share a 'good laugh' despite the pain she was experiencing. Now Fannie, my Dearly-Beloved, Precious, Marvelous niece, enjoy your peaceful rest. You've accomplished what God called you to do!!! May God comfort and console you Jessica, Bel, Bert,Gene and and all of the family in its' entirety, is my prayer! Sincerely, your Aunt, Constance Cannon precious gem
- Constance Cannon
My heart is broken and heavy with grief at the loss of Dr. Fannie Ratliff...'Oh that my head were a spring of water, and my eyes were a fountain of tears.......Jeremiah 9:1 Dr. Ratliff was a gift, a rare and precious gem, a priceless mother to her delightful daughter Jessica, and an invaluable asset to both her family and to her community. I've known Fannie since her High School years and thru her years in college as well. She spent time with myself, and her uncle's and cousins when we all resided in North Newark New Jersey. She visited us in Forida, and also here in Oak Park Il. with her nephew Brian and Jessica.She had an absolutely wonderful personality,her character was blameless, just an outstanding personality. Everyone who knew her, loved and admired her for her many talents,dedication and work ethic in the North Carolina Educational System. I will miss the sound of her voice and her laughter during our many long, and at times 'hilarious' conversations. I loved Fannie, and the thought that I will never hear her voice again, on this side of heaven, pierces me thru, time and time again! Our last conversation was on Sunday, April 18, 2021, and I'm so very grateful that she and I were able to share a 'good laugh' despite the pain she was experiencing. Now Fannie, my Dearly-Beloved, Precious, Marvelous niece, enjoy your peaceful rest. You've accomplished what God called you to do!!! May God comfort and console you Jessica, Bel, Bert,Gene and and all of the family in its' entirety, is my prayer! Sincerely, your Aunt, Constance Cannon precious gem
- Constance Cannon
My heart is broken and heavy with grief at the loss of Dr. Fannie Ratliff...'Oh that my head were a spring of water, and my eyes were a fountain of tears.......Jeremiah 9:1 Dr. Ratliff was a gift, a rare and precious gem, a priceless mother to her delightful daughter Jessica, and an invaluable asset to both her family and to her community. I've known Fannie since her High School years and thru her years in college as well. She spent time with myself, and her uncle's and cousins when we all resided in North Newark New Jersey. She visited us in Forida, and also here in Oak Park Il. with her nephew Brian and Jessica.She had an absolutely wonderful personality,her character was blameless, just an outstanding personality. Everyone who knew her, loved and admired her for her many talents,dedication and work ethic in the North Carolina Educational System. I will miss the sound of her voice and her laughter during our many long, and at times 'hilarious' conversations. I loved Fannie, and the thought that I will never hear her voice again, on this side of heaven, pierces me thru, time and time again! Our last conversation was on Sunday, April 18, 2021, and I'm so very grateful that she and I were able to share a 'good laugh' despite the pain she was experiencing. Now Fannie, my Dearly-Beloved, Precious, Marvelous niece, enjoy your peaceful rest. You've accomplished what God called you to do!!! May God comfort and console you Jessica, Bel, Bert,Gene and and all of the family in its' entirety, is my prayer! Sincerely, your Aunt, Constance Cannon precious gem
- Constance Cannon
Sending the family love, support and prayers.
- Britanee Stone
I am truly sad about the lost of a beautiful angle. We were classmates and I thank God for knowing such a sweet person. You will forever be missed.
- Virginia S Little
May God Be With You, Until We Meet Again. My Friend...
- Preston Waddell
My Dear Sister-n-Law may your soul rest in perfect Peace. I will love you until the end of time. I thank God for the conversations we had 04/22/2021. I can still hear your laughter. I am thinking of Luke 24 vs 14-15. They sat together and talked about all that had happened...then Jesus entered in. Oh God help us...Jessica you are your momâ??s world I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences & love to the Ratliff Family.
- Carrie Ingram
I am still trying to grasp the reality that my dear friend has passed. She will truly be MISSED!! Thoughts of her will forever linger in my heart. I wish to extend overwhelming condolences and prayers to Dr. Ratliff's (Fannie's) family!! Jessica, I love you!!!
- Frankie Gamble-Burch
My thoughts and prayers are with the Family of Dr. Fannie Ratliff. I was sadden to hear of Fannie's passing. May God continue to bless the family and be a constant light as they grieve for their loved one.
- Rosemary Byrd
A great lady and friend. Professional, caring, hard working, focused, and talented. She will be missed.
- Major Gary L Shaw
My sweet dear cousin Fannie. I still have pictures of when I was a young boy sitting on your lap while you use to visit us in New Jersey. Then when you and Jessica visited us in Florida many years later I have a beautiful picture of my twins sitting on your lap. Your smile brighten the whole room and you brought joy to everyone you came into contact with . You were a wealth of knowledge and you always checked on me and my kids. We will miss you so so much. May the lord watch over and comfort Jessica in this time of need. Your Cousin Florida -Will
- Will Cannon
All of Diligent Care, Inc. staff members and individuals would like to send our deepest heart felt sympathy to Jessica and the family. We are Praying for you.
- Tammy Bladwin
To Jessica and Family, Dr. Ratliff was a wonderful and phenomenal women in everything she did, but most of all as a friend. I loved her and will miss her greatly.
- Janice Norris
God, in His magnificent creation, formed Jesus as the 'Light of the World' and I venture to say He took it further to create 'lights' amongst us -- lights to love and nurture us, lights to guide us with divine wisdom for everyday living, lights that illuminate what God looks like, what He expects of us. God created Fannie, a magnificent human being and we are all beneficiaries of HIs goodness through her. Exceptional as a daughter, mother, sister, aunt, friend, co-worker, student, teacher, administrator, neighbor, volunteer... Fannie's light shines brightly as she has left so much of herself right here with us. My heartfelt sympathy to Jessica and the family.
- Cynthia Latham
Sending my deepest love & sympathy to my family at the loss of my cousin Dr. Fannie Ratliff. Words cannot express the caring, generosity & love she shared with everyone. Will be gratefully missed.
- Hannah Spencer
Sending my deepest love & sympathy to my family at the loss of my cousin Dr. Fannie Ratliff. Words cannot express the caring, generosity & love she shared with everyone. Will be gratefully missed.
- Hannah Spencer
May the presence of the Holy Spirit comfort you during your time of grief. Fannie was a beautiful person in body and spirit. Our school days were joyful and fun. Fannie, may God be with you till we meet again.
- Mary Tillman Burns
Dr. Ratliff was a sweet breath of true dedication to here beloved daughter Jessica, teachers and students. Always a beautiful smile, always with Jessica and always helping her students. I loved her here and will continue to love her. She will be missed greatly. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel. Her work here is done but has just begun in heaven. Much love to Jessica as I will forever keep her in my prayers. Jessica, she walked with you on earth, she will watch you now from heaven. GOD bless her family and comfort them as she is now resting in the safe of HIS hands.
- Wanda Johnson
I'm so deeply Heart broken to hearing of the passing of my dear classmate Fannie (class of 1973). My deepest condolences to her daughter Jessica and the rest of the Ratliff family. I will never forget her beautiful smile
- Mary Frances Smith -McNair
To: Jessica and the Ratliff Family Have known Fannie for such a long time as living in the same neighborhood for many years. May our GOD continue to bless her daughter, brother and sisters in the days to come.
- Gilbert McRae
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Fannie, my classmate. She was a very caring person who was loved by everyone. May Jessica and her family find comfort, understanding and peace during this time of sorrow. You all are in my prayers.
- Susan Sturdivant-Little
My heart aches for the family. I had the honor of being colleague to this sweet soul. Dr Ratliff was one of the most pleasant and dearest people to have crossed my path. May God embrace you at this time.
- Linda McCormick
My heart is heavy at this time. Dr.Ratliff was a loving and a classic and beautiful woman. My prayers is for Jessica and the family in a time like this. Joy is soon to come.
- Rev.Anthony Ledbetter
My thoughts and prayers are with Jessica and all Dr. Ratliff's family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
- Pat Frost
Fannie I am so saddened to hear about this. I did my internship under you at the Health Dept. I learned so much from you later to connect with you again with the school system. You were my friend. Love and prayers for Jessica. Love you always!
- Tammy Gathings
I am so sorry to hear of Fannie's passing. She was my supervisor at one time at the Health Dept. She was the best. I learned a lot from her and she always had my back. She was an extraordinary lady. She had a heart of gold and will be greatly missed. Prayers for Jessica and rest of her family.
- Dixie Allen
Dr. Ratliff will be greatly missed. I worked with her for 5 years....it was wonderful getting to know Jessica. Please know that I am greatly sorry for your loss...much love to the family.....
- selene l hardison
Dr. Fannie Ratliff will surely be missed by all, My prayers and condolences to Jessica and the family so sorry for your loss, May god blessed you.
- Mary Richardson
Thoughts and prayers to the family, especially Jessica, who I have known since birth. May God bless and keep you. Love
- Doris Pegues
I'm so deeply Heart broken to hearing of the passing of my dear classmate Fannie (class of 1973). My deepest condolences to her daughter Jessica and the rest of the Ratliff family. I will never forget her beautiful smile
- Mary Frances Smith -McNair
It saddens my heart to hear that this â??Angelâ?? has been taken from us here on earth. It was a blessing to know her and she will be missed. My condolences to Jessica and the rest of the family. May God bless and give you strength to endure during this difficult time.
- Heather Watkins
Dr Fannie Ratliff may your soul rest in perfect peace. My friend for more than 45+ years we loss so unexpectedly!!!! Praying for the Ratliff and Ingram families and especially the love of her life, her daughter Jessica that God will comfort our souls and not lean on our own understanding! To God be the glory for a life very well lived!
- Angela K Wall
To Dr. Ratliff's Family, I praying for you. Dr. Ratliff was an excellent educator, hard worker and kind hearted. She will be missed.
- Betsy Ammons
To Dr. Ratliff's Family, I praying for you. Dr. Ratliff was an excellent educator, hard worker and kind hearted. She will be missed.
- Betsy Ammons
Our deepest condolences to Jessica and the Ratliff family. May God continue to bless and keep you.
- Dora & Ervin Liles
So sorry for your family's loss.
- Wesley Ratliff
Dr.Fannie Ratliff A Faithful Servant in the Community and A wonderful Mother to her daughter Jessica. You will be missed Beautiful. My prayers are with Jessica your Sweet Daughter ð??¹ the Ratliff Family ð??¹Ingram Family ð??¹ Love you all ð??¹
- Rinnelle Bennett
On behalf of the Liles Family, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences and may our prayers help comfort you. We hold you close in our thoughts and hope you know you can lean on us for whatever you may need. Sincere condolences, Anthony & Jackie Liles
- Anthony Liles, M.Ed, CQA
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Fannie for many years in the school system. Prayers for Jessica and her family.
- Charity Faulkner
So very sorry to hear of your loss. I knew Fannie most of her life and found her to be a sweet and generous person. She will be missed by all that knew her. May God supply you with all your needs at this time and in the days ahead.
- Thomasina Wall Montgomery
I always enjoyed our conversations; prayers for the family.
- Dr. Kaye Davis Mangum