Gregory Funeral Service | Gastonia, NC

Obituary For Robert Ratchford

Robert Lee Ratchford, Sr. of Washington, D.C. was born on July 9, 1937, and departed this life on October 17, 2022. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mrs. Rosa Lee (Moore) Ratchford and James Ratchford, Sr., as well as brothers James (June) Ratchford, Jr. and Nathaniel Ratchford.

Robert Lee graduated from Cardozo High school in D.C. where he obtained a love for photography and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. He created a photography business where he captured precious memories of weddings, graduations, cabarets, parties, and picnics. He retired from the Federal Government as a Clerk for the United States Information Agency, U.S. Department of State.

After retirement, Robert Lee organized bus trips to Atlantic City casinos. His car service business where he escorted passengers to appointments brought him great joy.

Robert Lee loved great conversations, amazing food, and traveling. Trips to Canada, Africa, the Caribbean, and Las Vegas were among his favorites. He especially treasured annual trips to Gastonia, NC and Rock Hill, SC to visit family and friends. He lit up when the people who knew him as Robert Lee shared stories of the good times. Being around family and friends brought such joy, laughter, and peace to him.

Robert Lee was married to Ruby (Glascoe) Ratchford for many years. He also shared a life with Linda Comey and her dear family. Robert Lee is survived by many family members and close loved ones.

Memories shall forever be cherished by his children, Melissa (Jeffrey Sr.), Sabrina (Rene’), Robert Jr., Trina, and grandson Jeffrey Jr., sisters Willie Mae Patterson and Willean Phillips, cousins, James, Nan, and Donny and a host of nieces and nephews.

A life shared with special friends and the families of Howard (Jack) White, June Jackson, Barbara (Nannie) Jackson, and the entire 5th street family made life especially exciting and worthwhile.

Viewing at the funeral home on Tuesday; October 25, 2022 from 6 until 7

1 hour visitation before the service

Funeral at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at Gregory Funeral Service, 601 North York Street, Gastonia, NC 28052

Interment: Pleasant Ridge A.M.E. Zion Church Cemetery, Gastonia

Masks required at all services

Funeral services can be streamed on Gregory Funeral Service’ -Facebook Page

Guest Book

Mr. Ratchford was a man among men. He could compete with the best of them! He could jump down and do many push ups so fast! Plus he was a sweet, kind, gentle God fearing man! You'll have my deepest sympathy! 🙏🏾🙌🏾🙏🏾

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Trina, the loss of a love one is never easy to except; but we're children of God and our God is with us always. Call upon God to help you get through your grief. He continues to do it for me (Tangi); and I know he will do it for you. I love you and May God Bless you and your Family.

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Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you. Heartfelt thoughts go out to you and your family in this time of sorrow. Trina ...just remember gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. Your friend Camille

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It was a pleasure meeting your dad during our CAC event. May his lessons and light always surround you when you are in need. Prayers for you and you're family.

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Ratchford family. The loss of a loved one is never easy. God has a way over time of allowing the memories to be stronger than the sadness. May the memories of your father and grandfather strengthen you today and going forward. Love, The Martin family -Kim, Jackie, Monique and James.

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Trina, I know how close you and your dad were and you will always have those memories. May God's grace keep you and your family during this difficult time. Love you, Vicki Wiley Lewis

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Dear Trina, I was so happy I had the opportunity to go to the Art Exhibit in Old Town Alexandria Va. back in May with you and your Dad. Also I had the opportunity to talk to him in Oct. We had a real nice time. You always spoke highly of him from day to day and finally I met him. May he rest in peace and all the memories remain in each and everyone's heart. Your Co-Worker Slowe School Diane L.Barnaby

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Sending prayers of comfort to the family in memory of my Great Uncle Robert Lee. Staff Sgt. Jairus and Azsia Ratchford and family. Germany

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Family, May your memories live forever within your hearts and bring comfort, peace and laughter. May God keep, bless and strengthen you all in the days to come, Lisa Michelle Simpson.

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Though the light of life which brightly shined in the lives of his family has now become become a flickered wick, may the happiness and fond memories always remain as burning flame that warms our hearts. In loving memory of my Uncle Robert Lee. Love and comfort to the family. Johnetta R. Robbins

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Gregory Funeral Service | Gastonia, NC