James William Ratliff passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 12, 2026. Though heartbroken at his loss, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is home with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

James was born on March 28, 1949, to Bettye Sue Ratliff and Samuel Lester Ratliff.  He was raised on the "Frying Pan" ranch near Texon, Texas. He grew up enjoying country life and ranching with his parents and brothers whom he loved very much. He had fond memories of family vacations and especially of the trips to Ruidoso, New Mexico.

James graduated from Reagan County High School in Big Lake, Texas in 1967. During his high school years, he participated in numerous sports and was named a leader of several teams. He also enjoyed showing lambs with his brothers.

He attended Angelo State University where he excelled as a fighting Ram football player. He received the prestigious "Fighting Ram" award in 1971.

In January of 1970 he met his best friend and the "love of his life" Susan White. They were married on July 10, 1971. Upon graduating from Angelo State University in 1972, James spent four years teaching English and coaching varsity football and track.

However, in a few years the opportunity was presented for him to return to country living and ranching life that he so loved. He worked for his father-in-law that he loved and with his brother-in-law (that he considered a special friend). It was during these seven years that they were blessed with 3 beautiful, amazing daughters – "his precious cowgirls"!

After the passing of his father-in-law, James was later hired to work and look after the H. R. Smith Ranch near Campbellton, Texas. He loyally served the owner by caring for all aspects of the livestock, ranch land, and properties for 34 years. He loved the ranch and appreciated the blessings of being able to raise his girls there.

James loved his wife Susan and his 3 daughters and above all he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

His favorite things were spending time with family and making memories. James loved all God's creations and thrived in all aspects of ranch life.

He never met a stranger! He had a great sense of humor, a warm smile and a quick wit. He loved making jokes and making people laugh while entertaining them and having fun! James shared the best times of his life raising his 3 daughters with his wife Susan. He loved his grandchildren and his great-granddaughter.

Also, James did love his cowboy friends and the hours spent working cattle and telling stories when the work was done.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bettye Sue (Low) Ratliff and Samuel Lester Ratliff; as well as an older brother, John Cox; and brother-in-law, Russell White.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan White Ratliff; daughters, Regina Bowling (Gregory), Reagan Stotz (Marc), and Renee Ratliff Kelso; grandchildren, Garrett Bowling (Kristin), Gavinn Bowling, Kanani Martinez (Eusebio), Gage Bowling, Gabe Bowling, Kaleb Kelso, Cooper Kelso, Kase Kelso, Morgan Stotz, and Graham Stotz; great-granddaughter, Kinsley Bowling; brother Mike Ratliff (Marilyn); brother-in-law, Robert White (Sara); along with numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and special friends.,

A graveside service to celebrate James' life was held at 10:00 am, May 18, 2026, and was officiated by Pastor Pete Pawelek. James was laid to rest at the private cemetery on the H. R. Smith Ranch where he had always hoped would be his final resting place.

The family wishes to express special thanks to the Smith family for the gift of permission allowing his family to bury him at this cemetery. Also, they would like to thank Jeff Petter of the H. R. Smith Ranch for arranging the details for the service held at the ranch. Further arrangements were under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton, Texas.

James would have been so honored and appreciative for the love everyone has shown. He will be in our hearts forever and we will cherish the memories of our time with him.

From your beloved wife, Susan – love of my life, #67 on my football roster, #1 in my heart (after Jesus). Love you always and forever!

Rest Easy Cowboy – you will be greatly missed, loved forever and never forgotten!

If you would like to remember James, memorial contributions may be made to Community Bible Chapel – Pleasanton, Texas - 1176 W Oaklawn Rd, Pleasanton, TX 78064 or the Wounded Warrior Project - https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Pallbearers: Son-in-Laws – Gregory Bowling and Marc Stotz; Grandsons – Gavinn Bowling, Gage Bowling, Gabe Bowling, Kaleb Kelso and Cooper Kelso; Friend – Lance Dickens

Honorary Pallbearers: Grandsons – Kase Kelso and Graham Stotz; Friends – James Brymer, John Brymer, Billy Dickens, Jay Pat Tom, Alfred Krueger, Nathan Krueger, Kenton Krueger and Kevin Hierholzer; Angelo State Rams – Bobby Sims, Dan Sponholtz, Mike Guinn, Teddy Howell, Lynn Stroud and Jim Lightfoot