Lavone Leo Ratcliff

Lavone “Leo” Ratcliff, a Purple Heart decorated Vietnam Veteran, passed away on August 14, 2024, in Baker, LA. Leo, as he was loving known to family and friends, was born May 13, 1948, to Cleo and Mildred Ratcliff. He attended Hope Elementary School and JJ Gullage High School, and upon completion of high school he was awarded a partial scholarship to Jackson State University by the National Defense Fund before enlisting in the U.S. Marines. 

Following his years of military service he returned home to New Orleans, LA, and his consummate work-ethic transferred to the private sector working at Brice Construction, Landus Construction, Bannings Plant Nursery, and Rose Plant Nursery. He was a licensed and certified Horticulturist from the LSU school of Horticulture. His work can be seen all around the city and was featured in the New Orleans Magazine.

His hobbies included his love of the New Orleans Saints as well as equestrian sports. He enjoyed spending time at the New Orleans Fairgrounds with his friends. His last trip to the fairgrounds was a delightful trip arranged by his eldest daughter, Monique, and his happiness was evident at being at one of his favorite places with one of his favorite people. His commitment as a father was evident throughout his girls’ lives. He took pride in being able to pick Leona up from high school, and bragged about his daughter, Ambrosia’s, work with the military.

He was married to Maxie Jefferson Ratcliff, and he was a member of New Life Church of Christ (Holiness) USA in New Orleans, LA, where he attended with Maxie each Sunday when his health allowed.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents: Cleo and Mildred Ratcliff; siblings: Jacquelyn Delores Henry, Lacy Bernard Ratcliff, and Eddie Joe Ratcliff. 

He's survived by his devoted wife: Maxie Ratcliff. his loving daughters: Monique Carter (Mike Jones), Leona Ratcliff (Barrett), Ambrosia Roumell (Derrick). Siblings: Sylvia Ratcliff Carey, Billy Ratcliff (Charlene) and Betty Ann Ratcliff. Grandchildren: Christopher Ratcliff, Justin Carter, Jasmine Carter, Emanuel Jefferson, Elijah Smith, Isaiah Roumell; Great grandchildren: Jace Carter, Paisley Ratcliff, and Harlee Ratcliff; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncle other relatives and friends.

Homegoing services will be at New Life Church of Christ (Holiness) USA, 5918 Babylon Street on Saturday, August 24, 2024 - 9:00 a.m. (Visitation); 10:00 a.m. (Services with Military Honors). Interment: New Home Church of Christ (Holiness) USA Cemetery, Jayess, MS. Entrusted to Brown’s Funeral Home.