Joseph Randolph Ratliff

Joseph "Randy" Ratliff, age 66, of West Chester, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at the James Cancer Hospital Research Institute in Columbus, Ohio.  The baby of the family, he was born Tuesday, October 7, 1952 in Mansfield, Ohio to Alex and Vergene (nee Bailey) Ratliff.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Joe served during the Vietnam War.  His life would forever change when he me the love of his life, Joanell Clem.  He actually proposed to her after dating only one week, to which she responded with laughter.  One year later, on August 20, 1977 they both said "I Do" and began their amazing 42 years of life adventures together.

Joe had many different loves.  He has a huge toy collection that has an entire room designated for display, and his cumulations received a great amount of care. As a history buff, Joe often combined his love of travel with the opportunity to visit historical sites with his family.  He also enjoyed building model airplanes and ships and watching John Wayne, Star Wars and many other types of movies.

While Joe's collections and hobbies were important, they didn't hold a candle to his love of his family.  Friends of his children grew up calling Joe and Joanell "Dad" and "Mom".  When dinner was served, there was a plate set for you regardless of what your relationship was.  Joe had a strong work ethic and dedicated many hours over the years to being an electrical designer with GE, CDI and Belcan, but his family always came first.  His memory will forever live in the hearts of those that were touched by his kindness and generosity.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Vergene Ratliff.

Joe is survived by: his wife, Joanell (nee Clem) Ratliff; daughter, Jessica Ratliff; son, Jason Ratliff; grandchildren, Kylee Ratliff, Avery Ratliff, Sadie Ratliff and Grayson Ratliff; sisters, Carolyn (Bob) Simmering and Chloeann Mahan; and many loving family members and friends.

Per Joe’s wishes, services will be private with immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The James, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1480 West Lane Avenue, Columbus, OH 43221 or online at giveto.osu.edu/makeagift (We will be forever grateful for the care and kindness he received during the past year at the James)

Mueller Funeral Home is serving the family.