Bettie A Thompson Ratliff

Bettie A. Thompson Ratliff, 77, passed away March 16, 2011. She was born January 29, 1934 in Alturas, California. Her parents, Earl and Frances Leonard raised Bettie in Bieber, California with her three younger siblings. As a girl, she enjoyed horseback riding and played the clarinet in the school band. While in high school Bettie met Gene Thompson and fell in love. Gene joined the army and shipped out to Korea in 1951. Bettie graduated high school in 1952 and shortly after, Gene sustained an injury while serving his country, spent time in Japan and returned home. The two were married in 1953 in Sparks, Nevada. Their first home was in Nubieber where their daughter, Doreen was born. Shortly after she was born, the family moved to Red Bluff for Gene's work and Chery was born. In 1960 the family moved for the last time to Redding. Ten years later their son, Jeff was born. Gene and Bettie always had something to do. They would take an occasional motorcycle ride sightseeing, and they would go boating, camping, antiquing or rock hunting. The two enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities. Gene passed away on September 25, 1979. Bettie spent 30 years being single and spent her free time painting and doing crafts. She had a gift for creating beautiful artwork out of the simplest of decorations. In June of 2009 Bettie married Wendell (Windy) Ratliff at the First Church of the Nazarene in Redding. Since their wedding day, Bettie and Windy have spent all their time together. Whether it was going to the store, taking a walk or traveling out of state, they enjoyed being together.

Bettie is survived by her husband Windy Ratliff; daughters Doreen Ratliff and Chery Slater; son Jeff Thompson and his wife Emily; brother Walt Leonard and his wife Rose;sister Connie Hutchison and her husband Pat; grandchildren Lorie Johnson, David Ratliff, Katie Slater, Chris Slater and James Thompson; great grandchildren Joe Johnson, Josh Johnson and Jesse Johnson.

She is preceded in death by her sister Mearl Crampton.

A memorial service will be held in Bettie's honor on Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 4p.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene, 2225 Bechelli Lane in Redding. Arrangements are in the care of Lawncrest Chapel (530-222-1587).