Mary Irene Ratliff

Mary Irene Ratliff, age 90, of Birmingham, Alabama was called home by the Heavenly Father, March 20, 2021 after a short illness. She was born Mary Irene Forester on April 30, 1930 in Cullman, Alabama, daughter of the late Ethel Mae and Thomas Forester. Mary was the fifth child out six siblings.

Mary Irene was married to the late Leonard Edward Ratliff (Buddy) for thirty-nine years and was the mother of seven children. They were married on July 1, 1947.

Surviving children and spouses are Linda Sue Ratliff, Vicky Lynn and the late Bill Franklin, Danny Edward Ratliff and wife Terri, the late Kathy Faye and husband Matthew Rastovski, Pamela Jane and husband William Burks, Stephen Dale Ratliff, Tina Renee and husband Brian Luttrell.

Mary was a dedicated nurse’s aide for over a decade at a senior living facility in Eastlake and did private sitting for many years.

Mom was a caring, loving mother and most of all a devoted grandmother. She was blessed with twelve grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Mom was a great cook. She loved to cook county food made from scratch. Some favorites included iron skillet corn bread, fried okra, chicken and dumplings, banana pudding and sweet tea. Mom also enjoyed Sunday rides to Cullman to see the old farmstead, visit family, friends, and too lay flowers on her parent’s graves.

Mom never met a stranger. She loved to talk with everyone. Her favorite pastime was working in her flower garden & potting plants. Some of her favorite things were music, babies, sweets and ice cream.

Mom was a kind-hearted lady that loved her family more than anything. She was a devoted Christian and loved by all and will be greatly missed.