After a five year battle with breast and lung cancer, Glenda Ratliff Pierce, of Foxworth, Mississippi, passed from this life into God’s presence on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born in Columbia, Mississippi to Glen and Bessie Fortenberry Ratliff where she has remained a lifelong resident. Aunt Dutta, as she was known by most, was a graduate of West Marion High School, Pearl River Community College, and the University of Southern Mississippi where she earned a Bachelor of Nursing degree. Her nursing career spanned 37 years and she retired from Forrest General Hospital in 2019 after 20 years of employment. Aunt Dutta was a member of the USM Alumni Association, the Mississippi Nurses Association, the VFW Auxiliary, Lacy Kelly Post 3036 in Hattiesburg, and she attended Mays Creek Church of God in Foxworth.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Kerry Ratliff and Mike Ratliff; two nieces, Jackie Clark and Jennifer Blackwell; and one nephew, Daniel Clark. Aunt Dutta is survived by one sister, Jan Ratliff Clark (David) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The funeral service, officiated by Reverend Earl Turnage, will be at May’s Creek Church of God on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 11:00am. Friends may visit with the family at the church from 9:30am until service time. Aunt Dutta will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, assisted by Josh Martin, Chris Williamson, Cody Carter, Randy Clark, Tyler Brown, and Matt Brown serving as pallbearers.
The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to all of the staff at The Grove nursing home and Forrest General Hospice for the excellent care and kindness provided for Aunt Dutta.
