Louis G. Ratcliffe Jr.

Born in Charlotte June 5, 1925, Louie was the son of Hattie and Louis Ratcliffe, Sr. He attended Myers Park Elementary and Central High School, and continued his education at Clemson (military) University, where he graduated with a pre-med degree. His schooling was interrupted during WWII when he was drafted. Louis Ratcliffe, Sr. was the head of the draft board at the time. Louie served in the Army in Germany during the time of the Battle of the Bulge. Following graduation, he joined his father in the floral business that had begun in Charlotte in 1917. The business consisted of Ratcliffe’s Florist, the greenhouse operation, and a floral supply company.

Louie loved to play tennis at Olde Providence Racquet Club and golf at Myers Park Country Club. He particularly enjoyed fishing trips with his long time good friend, James “Slick” Evans. Louie was a member of the Charlotte Rotary Club for over 50 years. His hobby was pottery. He had several kilns, and enjoyed turning pots and face jugs to give his family and friends. His family fondly remembers the day he stopped playing the accordion.

Louie was preceded in death by his good friend, Miriam Crosby, and two sisters, Eleanor Abernathy and Hattie Boyette. He is survived by his brother, Joe Ratcliffe; two sons, David Ratcliffe and wife Patti of Charlotte and Mark Ratcliffe and wife Laura of Tampa Bay; and grandchildren, Ryan, Becca, Eryn, Stephen, Allison, Amy Mctier and Kevin Mctier; as well as six great-grandchildren, all who live in Charlotte.

A service to celebrate Louie’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 16th, in Harry & Bryant’s “Chapel in the Oaks”, 500 Providence Road. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. Private interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery.