Vincent Darnell Ratliff

Vincent was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Ratliff and Coy Sullivan Ratliff. His nine-year-old Daughter Kauionalani A. Ratliff also preceded him in death after losing her battle with cancer. Vince longed to see his Daughter again and it seemed that the void of losing his Daughter was never completely filled.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Vanta Ratliff. Brother Charles Ratliff and Sister (in law), Shirley Shelton. Children; Carl Jr., Brent, Ted, Randy, Christy, Lehuanani, Karen and preceding him in death was Kauionalani. Numerous Cousins, Nieces and Nephews also survive him.

Vince and Vanta collectively had 15 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren. There was no greater Joy in Vince’s heart than visiting with the Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.

He was a strong Christian Man and devoted much of his time working in the kitchen during various activities with the Church.

As an avid coin collector, he loved handing out Gold dollars and various other coins to people. He collected Vintage model airplanes, boats and cars. Vince was a History buff and loved watching documentaries on all sorts of Historical events. Any day you could walk in and see him watching a documentary or some old Western movie. Vince loved to go camping with the Family.

Vince met Vanta when he was a Bus Driver (bus 50) with Fresno Unified School District, Vanta was a special education teachers aide at Del Mar Elementary School and when she went out to help load the kids there were a few minutes for her and Vince to visit, They became good friends and then gradually began dating. Vince had his bus route modified so he could drive down Vanta’s street. She would bring him out a cold drink and visit for a few minutes. When they were married on June 11, 1988 the ceremony was conducted by one of his best friends and fellow bus driver Dennis Frazier and they were introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Bus 50.