Bishop Joe Jack Ratliff

Bishop Joe Jack Ratliff (aka “DAD”) age 78 of Wilmington, DE passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 12th, 2010. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends at Christiana Hospital.

He spent his lifetime ministering to others about the love and grace of God whom he worshipped with all his heart and soul.  He served as pastor of the Full Gospel Church of Kennett Square, PA from 1973 until retiring in 2005.  He served as the Church Bishop until his passing.

He was also employed at Lenape Forge of West Chester as a test cutter until retirement.

Dad was born to John and Roma Ratliff in Belcher, KY, on November 7th, 1931.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years Anne; eldest son Jerry; grandson Jeremy and brother Edward.

Remaining to relish the memories of this wonderful father and friend are daughters Jewell and husband Nathan Keith Pritchard of Wilmington, DE; Teresa and husband John Spence of Claymont, DE; Janie Johnson of Kennett Square, PA; sons Larry and wife Debbie Ratliff of Bear, DE; Pastor Gary and wife Shwanda Ratliff of Kennett Square, PA; sister Magaline Ratliff and her daughter Donna of Lexington, KY; sister-in-law Ada Benton of Kingsport, TN.  10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and multiplied thousands of Brothers and Sisters in Christ.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 16th at Christ Community Fellowship, 356 Chatham Road (Rt 841) West Grove, PA.  A going home celebration for dad will immediately follow the viewing at 7:30 p.m.  Burial will be at 12:30 p.m. the following day in the adjoining cemetery.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Wilde Funeral Home of Parkesburg, PA. Online condolences can be respectfully posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com