James Ratliff

James E. Ratliff was born December 11, 1951, in El Dorado Ar to Sie Luna Ratliff and Marlene Sims and was lovingly raised by PJ & Aberdeen Bryant from the very beginning; they brought joy, laughter, and love into their home. James shared a special bond with his grandparents, who nurtured him with unwavering love and devotion.

James accepted Christ at a very early age. He was Baptized at First Baptist Church Cordell in El Dorado, Arkansas. Later, he united with First St. James Baptist Church.

James graduated from El Dorado High School in 1970 and attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. His work career began at Ensco in the late 1970s. Over the years, he worked at El Dorado Water Utilities, where he later retired. Being a hard worker, he returned to the workforce at El Dorado School District/SCC El Dorado for 13 years.

Fever, as he was affectionately called by his family and friends, enjoyed racing cars in his younger years. His most precious time was spent with his children, grandchildren, and extended family. His past time was simply enjoying life to the fullest.

On January 7, 1972, James married the late Mary Luese Ratliff for 27 years, and to this union, two children were born: Zachary and JaQuetta.

James was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Syletta Ratliff, wife Mary Luese Ratliff, grandparents PJ and Aberdeen Bryant and Nathan and Ethel Cobb Ratliff, two brothers Zachary Lee Davis and Lee Hayes Ratliff, one granddaughter Sharmaine Brown, and two grandson Chauncey W Brown-Larry and Zai'lynn Hall-Larry. He departed this life on January 31, 2025, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock, Arkansas.

James memories will be cherished by his children: six daughters, Carla Coggins, Tamika (Mark) Kimble, Jessica (Patrick) Fraizer, JaQuetta (James) Hall, LaChyna Ratliff, Ladhyna Ratliff; seven sons: Rodney (Alexia) Larry, Demeatrice (Talmikia) Smith, Zachary (Shonda) Ratliff, Anthony (Beverly) Smith, Nathaniel Bernard Bowens, Desmond (Denekqua) Ratliff and James Cortez (Benitra) Ratliff; three bonus children: David Anthony Morris, Jerrod Henry (Sharon) and Quintoria Blueford; three sisters; Julia Ann Wade, Beverly Wilson and Marilyn Pitts; two brothers: Randall Davis and Marcus Ratliff; 55 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren; one God Daughter Ashley Buggs; A special friend Stephanie Keel. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.