One week ago last Thursday Mr. Wesley T. Ratliffe, an old and very highly respected farmer of this county, breathed his last and passed over the river of death.

Mr. Ratliffe was born in Williamson county, Illinois, May 3d, 1819, and lived all his life in the State which gave him birth.

At the early age of 12 years he sought to better his condition in life by removing to Tazewell county. He remained there for the next nineteen years, but in 1850 removed to this county, where he passed the remainder of his days.

When still a mere boy he was converted and soon thereafter united with the Methodist Church, of which he ever made a faithful and influential member. He filled the various positions of class leader, steward and exhorter, and was numbered among the latter at the time of his death.

In 1845 Mr. Ratliffe was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Lewis, who died four years later, leaving him five children, all of whom are still living.

In 1861 he was married to Miss Lydia Ann Dickerson, who died one later, while Mr. Ratliffe was in the army sick at Murphysboro.

He was, after the war, married to Miss Martha A. Page, who passed away in 1880.

Mr. Ratliffe therefore had three wives and one infant child precede him to the good world beyond.

He was a valiant soldier in defense of his country, a devoted husband, loving father, a sincere and faithful Christian who never shirked the call of duty, a quiet, unpretentious citizen. His last end was peace, and his soul has been gathered unto the God that gave it.

The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. Browder at Hopewell Church on Friday, December 2d, and his remains were deposited in the cemetery at that place.

Note:
Stone=Ratliff     Obituary=Ratliffe

Source: Unknown
Date: November 30, 1886
Submitted by: Ken Richardson