Samuel Edward Ratliff, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Lubbock, Texas, in 1947, Sam graduated from Lubbock High School in 1966 before continuing his education at Texas Tech University, where he graduated in 1971. It was at Texas Tech that he met his wife Cathy, whom he married in 1972. His love for her was enduring and tender, remaining steadfast until his last breath.

Sam and Cathy moved to Dallas, where they raised their three kids, Molly, Ben, and Brad. In 1983 Sam professed Jesus as his Lord and Savior. The Lord transformed his life. He was especially known for his servant heart. He found great pleasure in serving in different ministries at Watermark Community Church and Feed My Starving Children. As a member of Watermark, he found great joy in his faith and the community it provided. Professionally, he dedicated 28 years of his life to teaching at Dallas Academy, where he inspired countless students with his passion for art and science.

Sam enjoyed playing golf, occasional bridge, and a good cigar, often sharing these moments with family and friends. He always had a good "dad joke" ready to share to anyone he encountered. His constant and unexpected humor was treasured by everyone. He always kept a stash of gum balls for his eleven cherished grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, CW and Marge Ratliff, and his brothers, James and Dan Ratliff. He is survived by his wonderful wife of 53 years, Cathy; his sister-in-law Carolyn Ratliff; his brother Mike Ratliff (Debbie); his daughter Molly White (Jeff); his son Ben Ratliff (Hanna); his son Brad Ratliff (Anne Marie); and his grandchildren, Rebecca White, Betsy White, Hudson Ratliff, Landry Ratliff, Woods Ratliff, Walker Ratliff, Rhodes Ratliff, Cotton Ratliff, Hank Ratliff, Will Ratliff, and Callie Ratliff.

A memorial service to celebrate Sam's life is to be conducted Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11am at Watermark Community Church 7540 LBJ Freeway Dallas, TX 75251.

In lieu of flowers, please share a bag of Braum's sausage biscuits (Sam's favorite breakfast) with your loved ones and memorials can be made to Feed My Starving Children or Young Life.