David "Dave" Ratliff

Dave Terrell Ratliff, 70, of Sweet Lake, passed away at his home, with his family by his side, on Wednesday June 30, 2021.

Dave was a native of Monahans, Texas, raised in Jal, New Mexico and was a long-time resident of Sweet Lake. He retired from the oilfield, where he provided technical support to the workers of the rigs. Dave had a true passion for Racing Homing Pigeons since the age of 10. If one ever heard his story, the true love for this sport could be felt in his voice. He also enjoyed cooking and participated in the Senior Olympics, having brought home a gold medal for throwing the javelin. Most of all Dave enjoyed being the greatest husband, dad, paw paw and friend one could have.

Dave was baptized into the family of God in August 2006 and loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a Christian and an active member of Grand Lake Faith Temple, where he participated in the Men’s Breakfast and Prayer group, along with many other activities.

Preceding him in death are his parents, DeArman Fields Ratliff and Annie Katherine Mitchell Ratliff. He leaves to honor and cherish his memory, his beloved wife Jo Ellen Hebert Ratliff, with whom he celebrated 33 years of marriage this past June 14; children, David Ratliff (wife Shana);  Abby Gros (husband Lee); Alison Faciane (husband Larry); Dustin Ratliff (wife Alicia); fifteen grandchildren; one great grandchild; brother, Douglas Ratliff (wife Brenda); sisters, Linda Bowen (husband Steve) and Marsha Webster (husband Wayne) and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family of the heart.

A gathering of family and friends at Grand Lake Faith Temple will start at 1:00 pm on July 3rd, 2021, followed by a celebration of Dave’s life at 2:00 pm. Brother Andrew Martin and Brother Kris Howerton will officiate. In accordance to Dave’s wishes, cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the loving care and support provided to them at this time by the doctors, nurses and staff of St. Joseph Hospice.

Memorial remembrances may be made in his memory to the Grand Lake Faith Temple.