Minnie Emily Ratliff

Minnie Emily Ratliff, 83, of Bourbon, MO, known affectionately as Emily to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2023, at her home in Bourbon. Born on October 6, 1940, in St. Louis, MO, Emily's life was one marked by love, laughter, and a generous spirit that touched everyone she met.

Emily's early life was spent in the vibrant neighborhoods of St. Louis, where she grew up and attended local schools. It was here that she met the love of her life, Billy Ratliff, a childhood friend from the same neighborhood. Their friendship blossomed into a beautiful romance, and they were united in marriage on January 20, 1956, at the Pentecostal Tabernacle in St. Louis. Emily and Billy's union was blessed with two children, Kathy and Mark, who added immense joy and purpose to Emily's life.

As a dedicated wife and mother, Emily helped to raise their family in the city where she was born. She was a committed warehouse associate, first with Procter & Gamble and then with Fox Meyer. Emily's hard work and dedication were evident as she spent 30 years with Fox Meyer before her well-deserved retirement in 2003. In the early 1990s, Emily and Billy moved to Bourbon, MO, where they enjoyed the serenity and warmth of the community.

Emily's faith was the cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength and guidance through all of her days. She was a woman who found joy in the simple pleasures of life: shopping for treasures, tending to her garden, and caring for her beloved dogs. Emily's infectious laugh was a hallmark of her personality as well as her loving nature, to which she was the heart of her family. She was generous with her time and affection, always ensuring that her loved ones felt valued and cared for.

Emily's life was rich with the joy of friendships and the love of family. She especially cherished the special trips she took with her loved ones, moments that became treasured memories for all involved. Her presence was a comforting and joyful one, and she will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate to have been a part of her life.

Emily is survived by her son, Mark Ratliff and wife, Claudia of Des Arc, MO; four grandchildren:  Maria Fischer and husband, Charles, Timothy Ratliff all of St. Louis, MO, Jonathan Phelps and wife, Nicole of Wausau, WI and Brandon Wilson of Springfield, MO; six great-grandchildren:  Savanna, Lexius, Sarah, Arielle, Brayden, and Mary; a sister-in-law, Doris Norbert of Apple Valley, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy; her daughter, Kathy Wilson; her parents; a sister, Delita Andrews; and two brothers, Cecil Tharp and Londell Tharp.

Services will be 1:00 PM, Monday, December 4, 2023 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastor George Roach officiating.  Interment will follow at Bourbon Cemetery, Bourbon, MO.

Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday, December 4, 2023 prior to the service at the funeral home.

Friends may share condolences online with Emily’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.