Robert Kenneth Ratliff

Robert was born to Alberta Jones Ratliff and Robert Bolden on August 8, 1947, in St Louis Missouri.

He was a graduate of Vashon High School in St Louis, Missouri, and in 1967 he joined the Navy, where he served as a cook; this is where his love for cooking began.

After the military, he moved to Long Island, New York. There, he was baptized and became a Jehovah's Witness. He met and married his first wife, LaNae Goodwin and had their only child from that union. They eventually went their separate ways, and he moved to Dayton, Ohio in 1991.

Dayton quickly became his home and where he married his second wife, and forever best friend, Lillian Jackson. Together, they would host many families from the Kingdom Hall in their home for dinners, prepare lunch for large gatherings and cater wedding receptions. One special "catering" event was a National Convention at Yankee Stadium, where he arrived to attend the convention, and ended up in the kitchen.

All who knew Robert, knew of his love and faith in Jehovah God. This could be seen in his time in field service, attending domestic and international conventions, his anticipation to attend pioneer school, and his selfless desire to share Jehovah with others. Spending time with his close-knit group of family and friends, Northridge congregation and neighboring congregations made his heart so happy. He was blessed to know them.

'Adventure was in his soul'. This was printed on a large canvas that hung in his home. Whether it was on a plane, train or automobile, nothing would stop Robert from visiting his brothers and sisters of the Kingdom Halls all over the world. His visits would include visiting their homes, enjoying the local cuisine, and taking part in outdoor experiences, including horseback riding, fishing, and boating.

We will always remember his hearty laugh, his delicious cooking, cool suits and hats, his tenacity to teach the word of Jehovah and his generosity to his friends.

As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, Robert drew comfort from God's promise - Acts 24:15.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Shelby (Robert) Jenkins, 4 grandchildren, Aja, Asa, Kristen, and Nick. His sisters and brothers, Larry, Richard, Clara, Synetta (Donald), and Artena. In addition to having many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to close friends who also became caregivers to Robert before moving to Matthews.

A memorial service for Robert will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, 1:00PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 1161 Bartley Road Dayton, Ohio 45414. You may also join via Zoom ID: 219 442 5500 Pswd: bartleyrd