John Wesley Ratcliff

John Wesley Ratcliff passed away peacefully at home in the presence of his family on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at the age of 97 years. He was a native of McCall Creek, Mississippi and started his marital life in Venice, Louisiana and eventually settled in the New Orleans area. John, “Johnny” or “Rocky” as he was affectionately known was born on October 7, 1924 to Ollie Mae Dixon and John Henry Ratcliff. He was the beloved husband of Ione “Lovey” Buras for 63 years. Loving father of Tommie Lee Hildebrand (Joseph) and Debora Ratcliff Spezio. Grandfather of Michael Mudge, Jr (Regina), Christina Spezio Cresson (Jeffrey) and Kimberly Spezio (Blaine). Great grandfather to Claire, Grace, and Collin Mudge and Thomas, Gregory, Olivia and Emma Cresson. Uncle to a lot of nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by brothers, Thomas “Birdie” and Joseph Ratcliff. John served honorably in the United States Army Air Force in World War II in the South Pacific Division and remained a Patriot to his country all his life. He retired from Chevron Oil Company, having served in the Lafourche Division. He loved the outdoors, long walks, LSU football, current events and fixing all things. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Service in the chapel of Mothe Funeral Home, 7040 Lapalco Blvd. Marrero, LA on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 11am. Visitation will be held from 9am until 11am. Interment, Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, in honor of the “Greatest Generation”, we ask you to stand and wave a flag or donate to the Gary Sinise Foundation at www.garysinisefoundation.org . in memory of John. Special thanks to the compassionate caregivers at Heart of Hospice. Family and friends may view and sign the online guest book at www.mothefunerals.com .