Perry Willie Ratliff Jr (age 86), passed away on January 13, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born in Cuthbert, Texas on January 22, 1936 to his parents, Perry and Pearl Ratliff. He was the first born of a total of 11 children. His family moved to Arizona where he married Ariabell Bowling and began raising his own family.
In his early years, Perry worked in farming but eventually began employment as a long haul truck driver taking pride in his multiple safety awards. When he wasn’t on his big rig, Perry enjoyed his jam sessions on his guitar at The Buggy Inn and watching his favorite old westerns from the comfort of his recliner. Perry will be remembered as a gentle giant who told the best jokes that always had the whole room laughing.
Perry is survived by his wife, Ariabell, and their children: Barbara Ann (Robert), Larry Wayne (Sharol), and Michael Ray (Annette). He will be greatly missed by his children, his 7 grandchildren, and his 11 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by an angel baby, and his son, Dennis Craig, by his parents, and by 5 of his siblings.