John William "Bill" Ratledge

John “Bill” Ratledge 86 passed away Tuesday at Hinkle Hospice House.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 23rd  2017 at Oak Forest United Methodist Church with Rev. Julie Wilburn Peeler officiating.   There will be a reception following the service.   Bill was born in Davie County on May 8, 1931 to the late William Bryant Ratledge and Elizabeth Grace McDaniel Ratledge.  He worked at Salem National Lease and was a member of Oak Forest United Methodist Church.    Surviving is his wife Nancy Gay Bouknight Ratledge of the home; a son, William Franklin “Butch” Ratledge of Durham; a daughter Melissa Eickemeier (fiancé Kai Klingenburg) of Oak Ridge; a brother, Jim Ratledge (Faye) of GA; three grandchildren, Julian Bryant Eickemeier, Jacob Ratledge and Jillian Ratledge; his very best friend, Raymond Smith.   Bill lived a long and very fulfilling life.  He loved God, his family, church, country and community.  He was active in recovery for 28 years and helped many to find their way along life’s journey.  He never met a stranger and was an inspiration to many.  He lived his life one day at a time and was ready to be with his higher power when that time came.  He was a good and spiritual man with the kindest of hearts.  He will be both missed and lovingly remembered.   Memorials may be made to Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC  27292.   Davidson Funeral Home, Hickory Tree Chapel is assisting the family.