The Rev. Ernest Willard Ratliff, 91, passed away in Prattville on May 24 after a brief illness. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on May 31 from Sardis Baptist Church in Maplesville with the Rev. Terry Smith and the Rev. Robert Lovelady officiating.

Martin Funeral Home directing.

There will be a viewing for 30 minutes prior to the service at the church. Visitation will be May 30 from 5-7 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home.

Ratliff was married to his childhood sweetheart, Louise Owen Ratliff for 65 years when she passed away on March 26, 2007. Ratliff was a World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy on board the USS Barnstable.

He is survived by his three daughters, Carolyn Rayborn (Johnny) of Deatsville, Cleo Billingsley (Bill) of Mineral, Va. and Jo Harris (Steve); two brothers, Bill Ratliff (Harlan) of Montgomery and Cecil Ratliff (Betty) of Maplesville; two sisters, Pauline Payton of Pensacola, Fla. and Jean Tatum of Deatsville; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren; and also many nieces and nephews.

Flowers will be accepted and appreciated, however memorial contributions to the Sardis Baptist Church Cemetery Fund or your favorite charity will be appreciated as well. Send memorial gifts to Sardis Baptist Church, c/o Marlene Hayes, 8396 County Road 16, Maplesville, 36750.