Margaret Jean Ratliff

Margaret Jean Ratliff, age 72, of New Haven, was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 14, 2017, with her family and friends by her side. She was born on May 12, 1945, in Chesterfield, South Carolina to the late Sidney Rivers and Julia B. Rivers. Jean was the 15th child born out of a total of 19 children. She received her education from the Chesterfield, South Carolina School System and dedicated her life to the Lord and was baptized at a very early age. Jean relocated to Michigan in the early 1970’s and made New Haven her home. Thereafter, she was employed with Key Plastics until the time she retired. Jean always kept things real and was known as the “General” in her family. Folks that knew her always wanted to love on her. She loved cooking for her family and most importantly she loved her children, grandchildren and her son-in-law, Louis. She lived a very simple life and sacrificed all that she had for her children and grandchildren. There is NO doubt that they all were her whole world and the apple of her eye. Life will never be the same, but we trust and believe God’s word. She received her wings and now she can fly like an angel. Jean was preceded in death by 14 brothers and sisters. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, 3 daughters, Karen, Sandra and Nicole (Louis Brown), 4 grandchildren, DeMarco, Darius, Jawuan and her only granddaughter, Sydney. In addition, she also leaves in her loving memory, 4 brothers and sisters, Maxie (Savalia) Rivers of Port Huron, Diane (James) Hines of Charlotte, North Carolina, Julia Abner of Mt. Clemens and Charles (Shirley) Rivers of Chesterfield. A very special family friend and longtime neighbor, Edwina Johnson along with a host of nieces and nephews, who all loved her dearly. From her children, grandchildren, and her son-in-law – Moma, we know without a doubt that you loved us all unconditionally. We thank you so much for loving us and sacrificing everything you had for us. Rest in Heaven dear Moma, for your grace, love and mercy has been more than sufficient. We will meet you near the “Sea of Glass” near the throne of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, someday. Until then, we will carry on the legacy you left for all of us. Funeral services will be 12:00pm Monday, November 20, 2017, in the Jowett Funeral Home, 57737 Gratiot Avenue, New Haven. Reverend Arthur Turner of Greater New Hope Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will take place in Centennial Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Sunday, from 2:00pm to 8:00pm and Monday, from 11:00am until the time of services at 12:00pm in the funeral home. To view the obituary and share memories, please visit www.jowettfuneraldirectors.com

Margaret Jean Ratliff

May 12, 1945 - November 14, 2017