JERRY DANE RATLIFF

Jerry Dane Ratliff, age 85, of Sylvan Springs, Alabama, passed away on March 22, 2026. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Enhabit Hospice for their kindness, patience, and compassion in the final days of his battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Mr. Ratliff was born August 16, 1940, to the late William and Ada Chapman Ratliff. His journey began in the small community of Lawley, Alabama, where his family's dedication to farming instilled a strong work ethic in him. He often delighted in recounting childhood adventures with his siblings and cousins, reflecting the rich bonds of family. After completing his education at Bibb County High School in 1958, Jerry distinguished himself at Alverson-Draughon Business College in Birmingham. His early career included positions at the Birmingham News and the Women’s Missionary Union, but it was at the U.S. Treasury Department, where he started at just twenty years old, that Jerry truly began to shine, setting the stage for an impressive forty-year career ahead. After retiring, his many hobbies included golfing, gardening, traveling, fishing, playing Rook and dominoes with friends, and spending time with his family. He was of the Baptist faith and acknowledged Jesus Christ as his Savior. A peaceful and quiet man, Jerry was truly a remarkable grandparent. He spent countless hours at ball fields, gyms, and golf courses to support and cheer on his grandkids as they played and competed. His enthusiasm was infectious as he spent time teaching them the ins and outs of hitting golf balls and baseballs in the backyard. Proudly donning his "Best Granddaddy" t-shirt and hat, he had a special gift for connecting with his grandchildren, effortlessly embracing his inner child while playing alongside them. In addition to his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his brothers, Sidney Ratliff and Gerald Ratliff. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ruth Wilson Ratliff; his children, Teresa (Michael) Glaze and Dane (Stephanie) Ratliff; his grandchildren, Heather Glaze, Catherine (Micah) Roberts, Lana Ratliff, Dane Grant Ratliff, and Violet Ratliff; and his great-grandchildren Dustin Vildibill, Lyra Vildibill, Jolene Jordan, and Briar Prichard. He is also survived by his brother, Johnny (Nancy) Ratliff; his sister, Janice (W. C.) Hayes; his sister-in-law, Maurine Ratliff; and a host of cherished family and friends. Jerry was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. His love for his family, his kindness, and his generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A celebration of life memorial is planned for Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Peoples Chapel Funeral Home in Hueytown, with Bro. Billy Brewer officiating. The visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. The funeral service will be at 11:00 AM. A private burial will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jerry’s honor may be made to Big Oak Ranch (https://bigoak.org/). Romans 10:9 says "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Jerry believed. Do you?