Betty S. Barrett Ratliff

Betty S. Barrett Ratliff passed away September 30, 2024 at the age of 92. She was born February 28, 1932 to the late O.T. and Lula Stoudenmire.

Many knew Betty as a dedicated professional, having spent her later years as an Administrative Assistant for the State of Alabama, working diligently in the Alabama Department of Transportation's field offices for over a decade. Prior to that, she poured her heart and effort into her work at the Selma Hammer Mill in Human Resources for fourteen years and also shared her skill as a stenographer intermittently. Her career was marked by her unwavering dedication and meticulous attention to detail, attributes that were clearly mirrored in her personal life.

Family was the heart and soul of Betty’s world. She fiercely loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring they always felt the warmth of her affection. Each birthday brought with it a special tradition; she made it a point to meticulously send her grandchildren and great-grandchildren birthday cards, taking great care to ensure they arrived right on time—every time. This simple yet profound gesture illustrated her thoughtfulness and her desire to stay connected, no matter the distance.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Barrett and later husband, Cecil R. Ratliff; daughter, Julia Barrett Crocker; brothers, Ralph Stoudenmire and Robert Stoudenmire; sisters, Willie S. Cooper and Francis S. Rush.

She is survived by her children, Billy (Brinda) Barrett of Prattville and Kay (Jimmy) Davidson of Valley Grande; son-in-law, Roger Crocker of Brandon, Mississippi; grandchildren, Kelli (Craig) Walker of Madison, Mississippi, Daniel Crocker of Daphne, Karianne (Josh) Reid of Daphne, Bradley Davidson of Birmingham, Will (Jennifer) Barrett of Prattville and Wesley (Amanda) Barrett of Deatsville; great-grandchildren, Caleb Barrett, Libby Barrett, Payson Barrett, Reagan Reid, David Reid, Barrett Walker, Rivers Walker, Luke Walker, Asher Barrett, Evan Barrett, Ruby Barrett, Jake Crocker and Claire Crocker; sister, Ernestine S. Davis and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Betty had an incredible gift for bringing joy into the lives of those around her. Her strong wit and infectious laughter could light up any room, making even the most ordinary moments extraordinary. Though she found joy in singing, she preferred to keep this passion private, offering her melodies only to herself, reflecting the depth of her personal joys and intimate passions.

As we remember Betty, we celebrate her loving spirit, the countless smiles she brought to others, and the deep connections she cultivated throughout her life. Her memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Betty's enduring love serves as a reminder to honor our connections with family and friends—a legacy that will live on through the generations she nurtured.

Funeral services will be Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home with Pastor Jonathan Brown officiating. Interment will follow at New Live Oak Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Will Barrett, Wesley Barrett, Bradley Davidson, Daniel Crocker, Craig Walker and Josh Reid.