Sylvia McNair Ratchford

Sylvia Lorraine McNair Ratchford was born in Hartsville, South Carolina on August 14, 1944. She was the firstborn child of the late James DeVore and Lorraine Carlisle McNair. Sylvia was raised near Aiken, South Carolina where she graduated from Aiken High School in 1962 and went on to receive her bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Carolina in 1966. Sylvia is survived by her beloved David Maurice Ratchford to whom she was married almost 54 years, her daughter Melissa Ratchford

Bird (Brad), and four granddaughters: Caroline, Karis (Jordan), Lizzie, and Anna-Bradley. Also surviving are her brother, Carlisle McNair (Donna), sister, Ruthanne McNair Lucius (Henry), niece, Jean-Preston, and nephew, Henry.

Sylvia loved family and thrived on hospitality. She and David planted deep roots in Irmo, South Carolina pouring their hearts into their home, Cedarwood. From the tranquil setting deep in the woods of her Irmo home, Sylvia honed her natural gift of hospitality. She did not take this task lightly. To know Sylvia was to feel an immediate welcome in the warmth of her brown-eyed gaze. It was not uncommon for Sylvia to cook a Sunday dinner, pop it in the oven, and then head to church on the lookout for someone who might need the ministry of one of her meals. Such was the manner that the Lord used Sylvia Ratchford. She was always available to welcome the weary traveler, longtime friend, or precious family member to rest a spell and enjoy a cup of tea or settle in for an overnight stay. Sylvia’s heart was open to anyone the Lord brought her way.

Sylvia’s gift of hospitality was too big for just one state. She also practiced her craft in the mountains of North Carolina at her home away from home, Tree Music Lodge. Through her welcoming nature and acceptance more were afforded the opportunity to experience God’s love through her tender ministry of hospitality.

Sylvia’s innate warmth and quintessential southern charm were key threads woven throughout the tapestry of her life. Whether she was helping homeschool her granddaughters, hosting a missionary banquet, planning an oyster roast, or birthday party, Sylvia poured her heart into making everyone feel special and welcomed. She adored her family, and they continue to be her legacy. Long-term relationships with family and friends were of the utmost importance to Sylvia. She understood the value of investing in the things that matter - people! Afterall, she was a banker’s daughter.

Sylvia thrived on planning gatherings whether it was one of her simple “Sibby” game nights for her granddaughters or full on Christmas drop-ins with live music and all the festive trimmings, each was orchestrated with precision and attention to detail by a maestro with an infectious laugh and twinkling brown eyes. One always felt like family by the end of an evening at Sylvia and David's home. The Lord blessed many through Sylvia’s servant heart.

Sylvia loved people and they loved her. She lived out her belief that God called her to be a soft place to fall for her daughter and granddaughters. She poured herself into her calling to create a refuge for the weary and was attentive to God’s prompting to help others in need. Proverbs 31:28 easily applies to Sylvia Ratchford, “Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and He praises her saying, ‘Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all.'" Sylvia’s service extended beyond her home in the support of her church: McGregor Presbyterian Church in Irmo, then at Cornerstone Presbyterian in Irmo, South Carolina, and finally First Baptist Church of Columbia, South Carolina. Sylvia also loved history and, as a result, alongside her mother and sister, she was an active member in several historical societies.

While Sylvia’s first calling was to her family and church, Sylvia was a visionary and champion for those who have no voice; she served on the Council on Child Abuse and Neglect for South Carolina and the Women’s Legal Auxiliary. In 1968 she also plied her talent for hospitality while working for the South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism, during which time she had the privilege of opening each of the first welcome centers all over the state! Nevertheless, most memorably and consistently, the hallmark of Sylvia’s life was that she sought ways to make others feel loved and accepted. One could say Sylvia understood the pleasure of God when we care for others. And do not neglect doing good and sharing; for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:16 This was her life’s gift: caring for others. Sylvia Ratchford moved mountains and made a difference by caring for others through a listening ear, a warm meal, and providing a safe harbor.

The morning of July 15, 2020, the family will attend a private burial. Then at 11:30 am a memorial service will be held in the chapel of Columbia International University.

Please wear a mask and plan to social distance per COVID-19 regulations.

If you would like to give a donation in her memory, the family has selected Columbia International University, c/o CIU Robertson McQuilkin Scholarship Fund or Marketlife Ministries, https://marketlifeministries.org/offering/ to be recipients of your generosity.