Lawrence J. "Larry" Ratliff was born March 17, 1938 and departed this life Wednesday, April 10, 2013 reaching the age of 75. He was the son of the late Lewis and Lorna (Wells) Ratliff.

He is survived by: his wife, Sue Ann (Murphy) Ratliff of Monticello, KY; 3 sons, Lawrence (Debbie) Ratliff, Jr. of Kettering, OH, Kerry Joe (Jana) Ratliff of Englewood, OH, and Chuck Lewis of Spring, TX, and adopted son, Bill Tharp of Monticello, KY; 5 grandchildren, Anthony, Kelsey, and Aliya Ratliff of Dayton, OH, Dee Dee Ratliff of Kettering, OH, Maximus Ratliff of Englewood, OH . He is also survived by: 2 brothers, William K. (Maureen) Ratliff of Hanover, MD and Omer (Doris) Ratliff of Monticello, KY; and 3 sisters, Rose (Vern) Crain of Red Bluff, CA, Sarah Ratliff of Severn, MD, and Emma (Charles) Smith-Newcomb of Monticello, KY; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of family and friends who mourn his passing.

In 1995, Larry and his wife, Susie spearheaded and founded the Wayne County Humane Society. He continued to be involved with the day to day activities until March 2013 when he was forced to step aside due to health issues.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, relative and friend who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

A Memorial service will take place over the July 4th weekend for family and close friends.