Billy Joe Ratliff, 75, of Chattanooga, departed this life on Thursday, April 19, 2012 in a local hospital.He was born June 23, 1936 in Hamilton County. Preceding him in death are his wife, Hattie H. Ratliff; father, James Ratliff; mother, Cecelia Ratliff Adams; stepfather, Bennie W. Adams; sister, Vivian J. Johnson; brothers, Ronald, Franklin and James Edward Ratliff.He leaves to cherish his memory: sisters, Yvonne C. (Dr. William B.) Findley and Sandra F. (Michael A.) Jones; brother, Louis Milton (Patricia) Ratliff; sister-in-law, Wilma B. (Ronald) Ratliff; other relatives; special friend, Helena Ector and other friends.Graveside services will be at noon Saturday, May 26, 2012, in Forest Hills Cemetery with Rev. Dwight Harrison officiating.Arrangements are by Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga Inc.