Melva Sandra (Sandy) Ratcliff

Melva Sandra Ratcliff, lovingly known as Sandy, peacefully departed this world on May 14, 2026, at the age of 84. Sandy was born on January 27, 1942, in the close-knit community of Amite, Louisiana, to parents Melvin Cox and Ella Griffith, and was cherished by her stepfather, Gene Griffith. She is now reunited with them in eternal peace. In a life richly lived, Sandy’s gentle spirit and unwavering strength touched the hearts of everyone she met. She courageously battled lung disease, surrounded by the unwavering love of her devoted husband and children, who were by her side at the end. Sandy was the beloved wife of Jerry Ratcliff, with whom she celebrated 49 years of marriage. Their love story began in Dallas, Texas, where they married on February 2, 1978, during their lunch hour, a testament to their spontaneous and adventurous spirits. Together, they built a life full of laughter and love, raising a beautiful family. Sandy was a proud graduate of Kentwood High School, Class of 1960, in Amite, Louisiana. Her career journey took her to Cedar Hill, Texas, where she served as a Supervisor at Ruse Rouge for eight years. She later joined the Maintenance and Transportation Department of the Midlothian Independent School District as a secretary, where her dedication and warmth left a lasting impression. Her career was lovingly paused when she retired in January 2020 after a stroke, yet her spirit remained vibrant and full of life. An adventurous soul, Sandy found joy in the great outdoors. She cherished fishing, camping, and boating, and she loved the freedom of the open road on a motorcycle. Attending rallies across the states, Sandy embraced life with an infectious zest. She also delighted in supporting her grandsons at their baseball, football, soccer games and wrestling tournaments, where her cheers and encouragement were a constant source of inspiration. She and Jerry enjoyed bowing in adult competitive leagues and he coached her adult softball leagues in Duncanville and Cedar Hill. Sandy leaves behind a legacy of love in her family: her husband, Jerry; her children, Tony Leake, Sheri Mathis and husband Greg, Christy Chapman and husband Charles, and Misti Torres and husband Joe. Her grandchildren, Cody Wilcoxson and girlfriend Baylee, Jacob Mathis, Wesley Wilcoxson and wife Leila, Joel Mathis, Allan Rapollo and wife Sidney, AJ King and girlfriend Paige, Jace Mathis, Ayden Torres, and Hunter Torres, will forever remember her as a guiding light. Her great-grandchildren, Meyah, Willow, and Blaze Wilcoxson, will carry forward her stories and spirit. Sandy's life was a testament to love, resilience, and joy. Her gentle presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. As we say goodbye, we hold onto the love and memories she gave us, knowing she is at peace and watching over us with the same warmth she shared throughout her life.