Vivian Joy (Dotson) Ratliff

RATLIFF, Vivian Joy (nee Dotson)

Vivian Joy Ratliff was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother  aunt and friend.  She left this earth and went to Heaven on February 23, 2022, at age 94.  She longed for Heaven and we rejoice for her!

Vivian was born to C.C. and Polly Dotson in Stone, KY  on October 16, 1927.  Shortly after graduating from Belfry High School, Vivian met and married her husband of 49 years, Chester Ratliff.  Chester always said he knew the first time he met her, that he was going to marry her.  He asked her on their second date and she said yes on the third!  She laughed at this story every time we reminded her. They did marry on September 15, 1946 in Williamson, West Virginia.

Vivian and Chester moved to Lexington, Kentucky where Chester attended seminary.  Dr. Chester Ratliff and Vivian, his helpmeet,  later served the Lord at Temple Baptist Church for over 30 years.  At Temple Baptist Church, Vivian enjoyed the role of Pastor's wife - the third most valued role of her life (the first and second, being wife and mother).  She loved serving the Lord and teaching God's Word. Vivian taught the Bible in Sunday School, weekly Bible studies, and led three adult senior Bible studies - Waterford Retirement Home for 9 years, Woodridge Retirement Home for 20 years and the Lebanon Senior Center for 9 years.  There was no joy greater in her life than that of sharing God's Word.

Vivian is survived by David (Florence) Ratliff, Linda (Bob) Pope, Terry (Bob) Stehlin and Jonathan Ratliff.  She felt blessed to be the grandmother of 8 living grandchildren, 1 grandchild in heaven and 16 living great grandchildren.   She and Chester lived Jesus right in front of their family each and every day.

A Celebration of Life Ceremony is planned for Wednesday, March 2, 2022

North Fairfield Baptist Church

6853 Gilmore Rd.

Fairfield Township, OH  45011

Visitation 6 pm to 7 pm     Service at 7 pm

The family asks that in lieu of flowers,  that contributions be sent to:

Missionary David Board #1275

Missionary to Cambodia

c/o B.I.M.I. (Baptist International Missions Inc.)

P.O. Box 9

Harrison, TN  37341

Condolences may be offered at www.avancefuneralhome.com