Lester Ratliff

1937 - 2024

Lester Ratliff was born on February 2, 1937, to the late Leslie and Georgine Ratliff. Bro. Lester was raised as a member of the Church of God in Christ. He was affectionately known to all as "Red" because when he was born, he was red all over. After working on the railroad for 30 years, he sat back on his porch happily retired. He was married to the late Ozzie Mae Ratliff for 55 years. He was a wonderful and loving father to 6 children. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife. His siblings; James W. Ratliff, Jewel Ratliff, Linda Robertson, Eugene Ratliff, and Edna Belle. On May 5, 2024, at the age of 87, Lester received his wings and flew through the gates of heaven, reuniting with his wife. His memory will be cherished by his sister Myra Lucille Ratliff-Simms; six children: Oliver (Tisha Young) Dawson; Lisa D. (Michael) Howard; Ledger (Nina) Ratliff; Shelita Ratliff; Mazrow Ratliff of New Orleans, LA, and Cornelius (Clarissa) Dawson of Terryville, CT. Grandchildren: Oliver Jr, Jeremy, Zondra, Miki, Ashley, Armondo, Rynelius, Canisha, Devon, Ashlynn, Makayla, and Kaitlynn; Great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, a brother-in-law, family, and friends. Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life Service on Friday, May 17, 2024, for 2:00 p.m. at The Boyd Family Funeral Home, 5001 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70126. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Bryan Cowart, officiating. Interment will be on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Bethal Church of Christ, 25333 Harvey Rd. Franklinton, LA 70438. Online guestbook: www.anewtraditionbegins.com (504) 282-0600. Donavin D. Boyd and Linear Brooks Boyd Owners/Funeral Directors.