Bernard Eugene Ratcliff Obituary
Bernie Ratcliff, 75, of Thornville, Ohio, passed away peacefully with his loving daughters by his side on December 27, 2025. Bernie was born on May 2, 1950, in Montcalm, West Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Willie and Joyce Havens; his in-laws, Raymond Jr. and Hazel Rickels; his brothers, David and Craig Havens; his sister-in-law, Beverly Ann Rickels; and his son-in-law, Chad Sellers.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah; his daughters, Cher (Eric) Bland and Summer Sellers (Josh Edwards); grandchildren, DeLando Turner Jr. (Somer Crutchfield), Chase, and Gracie Sellers; great-grandchildren, Elle'Ainah and Arianna Turner; chosen family, Mike and Tracy Sutton and their family; special nephew, Garrett Oliver; sisters, Shirley Miller, Judy Norris, Regina (Robert) Pennington, and Bernice (Buck) Lucado; sister-in-law, Lisa Rickels (Richard Skinner); brothers-in-law, Raymond "Butch" Rickels III and Ralph "Ed" (Patty) Rickels; along with many loved ones.
Bernie shared a true fairytale love story with his wife, Deborah, of 55 years. As high school sweethearts, their bond was a testament to commitment, friendship, and enduring love. Together, as a team, they built a beautiful life rooted in family, hard work, and unwavering devotion.
He was the proud father of two amazing daughters who were the light of his life. His legacy continues through his three cherished grandchildren and two adored great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy and pride.
A hardworking and driven man, Bernie was the proud and successful owner of a masonry business, which he started on October 2, 1978, and from which he retired on May 2, 2020. He took extraordinary pride in his work and in providing for his family—leading by example through dedication and perseverance.
He graduated from Whitehall-Yearling High School in 1969. He enjoyed golf, boating, and many beach vacations in the RV with his copilot beside him—and, of course, his first pride and joy, his 1952 Ford F-100.
Above all else, Bernie was the true example of what every man should be: a family man—steady, loyal, and generous with his unconditional love. He carried the weight of those he knew and loved on his broad, strong shoulders. He will be remembered for his strength, his quiet wisdom, the deep love he carried for those closest to him, and a handshake you would never forget. He leaves behind a wealth of love, resilience, and many cherished memories.
After a long, hard-fought battle with dementia, his mind is now at peace.
His greatest pride was never what he built with his hands, but the family he built with his heart.
Please join us in celebrating Bernie's life on Sunday, January 4th, at Kauber-Fraley Funeral Home, 289 S. Main Street, Pataskala, Ohio, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A memorial service will take place immediately afterward.
