Earl Richard Ratledge

He was a graduate of Friendsville High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Eckerd College. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean War and was awarded the Bronze medal. He later was a small business owner of Holston Insurance Agency and was an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Greater Knoxville Chamber of Commerce. He founded the Knoxville Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association and served as President until last year. He was a sixty-three year member of Graystone Presbyterian Church where he was an Elder for forty two years.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wright and Eva Jane Ratledge as well as brothers: Charles, Ralph, Lon and J.C. and sisters Bessie and Stella.

He is survived by his two daughters, Renee Harmon (Doug) and Kristi Francavilla (Tim); son, Richie Ratledge as well as five grandchildren: Nicholas Harmon, Madeline Harmon, Alexander Francavilla, Jacob Ratledge and Camden Francavilla.

A Celebration of Earl's Life will be held Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Graystone Presbyterian Church, 139 South Woodlawn Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920 with Reverend Dr. Leslie Rust officiating and Reverend Eugene Thomas. Family and friends will meet Monday, April 7, 2025, at Clover Hill Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 825 Clover Hill Rd, Maryville, TN 37801 for a 10:00 AM Graveside Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Graystone Presbyterian Church, Clover Hill Presbyterian Church or Fish Hospitality Pantries, 800 Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919.

Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Ratledge family at www.berryfuneralhome.com