James Robert Ratliff Sr.

James Robert Ratliff Sr., 90, of Owingsville, Kentucky passed away Monday, November 24, 2025, at the UK St. Claire Hospital in Morehead, Kentucky. He was born in Bath County on April 19, 1935, to the late Arthur Ratliff Sr. and Elva Griffey Ratliff.

James was a quiet, steady soul whose love for his family shaped every part of his life. He served proudly in the United States Army. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, James poured his whole heart into the people he cherished most. He was always there when he was needed-never raising his voice, never judging, simply offering patience, kindness, and a helping hand to anyone who came to him.

James shared many passions with his family, but fishing was one of the greatest. He taught his children and grandchildren not only how to cast a line, but how to slow down and appreciate the peaceful moments life has to offer. He had a natural calmness about him, the kind that made people feel safe, understood, and loved. A gifted craftsman, James built his own furniture and created treasured pieces for all his children. Each piece carried his time, his talent, and his love-lasting reminders of the care he put into everything he did. He adored children and every animal the family brought home, treating them all with the same gentle affection. James enjoyed watching horse races, playing cards on his computer, and working the newspaper crossword puzzle whenever he could. But nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren. His smile for them was unmistakable-pure love, pride, and warmth in every glance.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Joyce Ratliff, his children, Rogie Coyle (Brenda), Brenda Sorrell (Phillip) and James Robert "Bobby" Ratliff Jr. (Karen) all of Owingsville, his grandchildren, Brandon Coyle (Tera), Robbie Coyle (Christy), Phillip Sorrell (Amanda), Matthew Sorrell (Megan), James Robert "Trey" Ratliff III (Morgan) and Will Ratliff. He also leaves behind his great grandchildren, Ayden Coyle, Owen Coyle, Hudson Coyle, Taylan Sorrell (Lilly), Ava Sorrell, Hunter McCoy, Hannah McCoy, Hadlee Sorrell, Holden Sorrell, Marlowe Ratliff and one great great grandchild, Crossten Sorrell, two brothers, Mike Ratliff (Jodie) of Preston and Roger Ratliff of Lexington, along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Arthur Ratliff Jr and one sister, Geneva Gross and his nephew, Jimmy Johnson. James leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, unconditional love, and simple, beautiful moments that will live on in the hearts of his family forever.

At James's request, there will be no services at this time.

The Michael R. Gray Funeral Home in Owingsville is caring for all the arrangements for James R. Ratliff Sr.