Phillip Matthew Ratliff

Phillip Matthew Ratliff, 44, of Harrisburg, NC, passed from life on earth into the arms of his Heavenly Father on August 9, 2015. He was surrounded by family and friends. His wife, Jenni, was at his side.

Phil was a native of Louisa, KY, a graduate of Lawrence County High School in Louisa and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, WV. He played football at Marshall from 1989-1992, was a two-time NCAA All American Offensive Lineman, was captain of the 1992 National Championship team, and was inducted into the MU Athletics Hall of Fame. Phil served as head football coach at Spring Valley High School, assistant football coach at James Madison University, and coached the tight ends at Marshall University before moving to UNC Charlotte in 2012 as recruiting coordinator and to coach the offensive line. He was truly respected in the coaching profession.

Phil had a magnetic personality that touched the lives of everyone he met in some special way. He was of the Baptist Faith and encouraged his players, students, and others to live life to the fullest. He was an example. Some of his favorite hobbies were hunting, fishing, golfing and, of course, football. But he felt the most joy when he could spend time with his wife and children and especially when he could be involved in his children’s activities. Phil loved his Lord, loved his family, loved his players, loved his friends and coworkers, and loved life.

Left to mourn the loss of Phil but to cherish the many lasting memories are his loving wife of 21 years, Jenni, and their two children, Haley and Dylan of Harrisburg, NC; his parents, Darrell and Sharon Ratliff; brother Brian (Darla) Ratliff and their children Josh and Caden; sister Melinda (Travis) Feltner and their children Jackson and Kensley, all of Louisa KY; mother-in-law Martha Hill of Madison, WV; and a host of extended family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30pm on Saturday, August 15, 2015, at University Hills Baptist Church with Rev. David Henderson officiating. Visitation is scheduled from 6:00-9:00 pm at the church on Friday, August 14, 2015. A memorial service to celebrate Phil’s life will be held at the Halton Arena at 6:00pm on Saturday, August 15th and all are invited to attend. Additional memorial services to remember Phil will be held in Louisa, KY and in Huntington, WV on Saturday, August 22, 2015.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Phil Ratliff Memorial Fund to assist the family (with immediate and long-term expenses). Those donations may be made with checks payable to the UNC Charlotte Athletic Foundation at 9201 University City Blvd.; Charlotte, NC 28223 or by calling 704-687-4950.

Online condolences may be made at www.mcewenderitachapel.com.