Joe Edd Ratliff

In Loving Memory of Joe Edd Ratliff

(September 29, 1946 – November 4, 2025)

Surrounded by love and memories, we celebrate the life of Joe Edd Ratliff, who passed away on November 4, 2025, at the age of 79. Affectionately known as “Sonny” or “Hands,” Joe was a cherished son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. A devoted member of The Church of the Living God (The Love Corner), he faithfully served as a trustee, usher, member of the Watch Ministry, singer in the male chorus, and co-creator of the church community garden.

Born on September 29, 1946, in Corinth, Mississippi, to Ida Mae (Flemming/Gwyn) Ratliff and William Thomas Ratliff, Joe was one of nine children. Growing up in Mississippi shaped his steadfast character, humor, and love for people. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and helping others—values that stayed with him throughout life.

Joe moved to Champaign, Illinois in October 1969, where he built a strong foundation through hard work. He worked for Illini Honda, Shelby Motors, Clifford & Jacobs, and later co-owned Joe & Lola’s Detailing business. His integrity and work ethic earned him deep respect in the community.

Joe’s most cherished role was that of a family man—beloved husband of 56 years to Lola (Robinson) Ratliff and devoted father to Wanda (Nate) Redmon, Scynthea Ratliff, and Debbie Ratliff. His wisdom, humor, and unconditional love will live on in their hearts.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, daughters, grandchildren—Harry Martin Jr. (Jessica), Page Martin, Nolan Martin, and Jayden Redmon—eight great-grandchildren, forty-one nieces and nephews, brother Jesse (Barb) Ratliff, sister Helen (Duck) Brock, sister-in-law Paulette (Fred) Sanders, and a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William T. and Ida Ratliff; siblings Inez (Mack) MacManus, William (Bud) Ratliff, Ernestine (Donnie) Brunson, Ethel (Joe) Mann, Daisy (Dee) Gardner, Peggy (Henry) Graham, Shanda Brock, and Ben (Bernice) Gardner.

A additional visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m. at Leek & Sons-Urbana. Donations may also be made to the American Heart Association or the American Kidney Fund in Joe’s honor.

A service to celebrate Joe’s life will be held on November 14, 2025 at The Church of the Living God. Visitation begins at 10 a.m. and service at noon. Flowers may be sent to the church. 

Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Garden.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joe Edd Ratliff, please visit our floral store.