Merlin "Sam" K. Ratcliff

Merlin Keith “Sam” Ratcliff, age 81, of Maysville, WV passed away on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at Stonerise  Rehabilitation in Keyser, WV.

 Sam was born on April 17, 1941 in Petersburg, WV and was a son of the late John William  Ratcliff and Margie Catherine (VanMeter) Ratcliff.  In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by five sisters, Ruth Smith, Dorothy Moyers, Goldie Borror, Verda Moyers and Bertha VanMeter; four brothers, Harlen, James, Bill and Dwight Ratcliff.

Sam is survived by his wife Mary Ann (Berg) Ratcliff whom he married on January 11, 1975;  one daughter, Lisa Barger (Leon) of Petersburg, WVone son, Jeff Ratcliff (Stacia) of Maysville, WV; five grandchildren, Marissa Ratcliff, Madison Arbogast, Khole Brown, Kindall Ratcliff and Taylor Kessel (Cameron); six great grandchildren, one brother, Gerald (Elva) Ratcliff of Petersburg, WV and several nieces and nephews. 

 Sam will always be remembered for his kind helpful nature.  In his free time before retirement, you could find him at Hinkle’s Garage. 

Sam loved farming.  After retirement he spent his days having breakfast with friends at Sue’s, working the farm, doing maintenance on the farm equipment and riding around the property to check cows.  He enjoyed trips to town or just a ride through the community with Mary Ann.  He especially loved spending time with his youngest granddaughter Kindall. Sam loved his family.  When things needed fixed, Sam was the person to call.  He loved helping his neighbors and would work as long as needed to fix the problem. 

Merlin’s family  will receive friends Tuesday from 5 - 7 PM at the Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg. 

Funeral service will begin at 7:00 PM in the chapel of Schaeffer Funeral Home. with Pastor Chaz Stoner officiating.

Graveside service will be Wednesday 11 AM at the Turner Family Cemetery on Jordan Run Road, Maysville, WV.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ratcliff Family, c/o Schaeffer Funeral Home,11 North Main Street, Petersburg, WV.

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