Charles Ray Ratliff, Jr., known to all as Ray, was born on October 5, 1954 and died on January 13, 2026.  He was the beloved son of Charles Ray Ratliff and Mary Edith Conner Ratliff, and he made his home for many years in Franklin, Tennessee.

Ray leaves behind his devoted wife Dorothy Westervelt Ratliff; his brother, Hal Ratliff; his sister, Lj Ratliff; his niece Kristin Jesperson; his great niece Alice Jespersen and many cherished friends and loved ones of choice whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Ray was a gentle soul, marked by kindness, humility, and a deep belief in the equality of all people.  He had a special love for animals and lived his values through compassion and care for others.  Those who knew him remember his quiet warmth, thoughtful presence, offbeat sense of humor, and the sincere interest he took in the lives of those around him.

Music was Ray's lifelong gift, calling, and career.  He was an exceptionally gifted pianist and organist as well as a composer and arranger. Through performance and teaching, he spoke directly to the hearts of countless people.  Ray earned a Master's of Church Music from Golden Gate Theological Seminary, a Bachelor of Music degree from Samford University, and was a graduate of Temple High School in Temple, Texas.

For many years, Ray worked as a devoted piano teacher, offering not only musical instruction but also encouragement, patience, and care.  He took a personal interest in the young people he taught, believing deeply that their lives mattered.  In addition to teaching, Ray served as a church pianist for several congregations with his longest and final service at Brentwood First Presbyterian Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, where his music became an integral part of the worshiping community.

In his later years, Ray found great joy participating in " The Dulcimer Dandies"  in Franklin, Tennessee, delighting in shared music-making and fellowship.  Music brought him happiness throughout his life and through his extraordinary gift, he brought comfort, beauty, and inspiration to many.

Above all, Ray loved his family, and his life was a quiet testament to kindness, generosity, and grace.

A Memorial service for Ray will take place Sunday, January 25 at 3 pm at First Presbyterian Church in Brentwood, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ray's memory to the Williamson County Animal Center or Pawster Nashville.