Lewis Ratchford was born to the late Odie Dean Ratchford and the late Millie McWilliams Ratchford on October 29, 1946. He accepted Christ at an early age ad was baptized.

In 1973 in Chicago, Illinois, Lewis met Marjorie Payton and they were married. Their marriage lasted 53 years.

Lewis worked in the Pallet Business for over 30 years, before his health caused him to retire in 2008. When it came to his job, he was very serious and hardworking.

We will all miss Lewis with a big smile on his face and his playful ways. He was always ready to help family or friends when needed.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Brigette Ratchford; his parents, Odie and Millie Ratchford; his siblings, Millie Ratchford, Margaret Green, Ruby Doris, Lillie Randle, Octavia Hill, Frank Ratchford, Lydia James, Odie Ratchford, Jr. and Herbert Ratchford and his nephew/brother, Samuel "Bo" Miller.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife, Marjorie Ratchford; five children, Nacole, Michael, Lewis Jr. (Tina), Shonna (Steven) and Herbert (Donna); eight grandchildren; one great grandchild; one sister, Barbara Box and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Lewis will be missed by all that knew him. We all know that he has gone on to get some much needed rest. He fought a good fight. We love you Lewis and you will never be forgotten.