Ratcliff, Sharon

Sharon Ratcliff, born August 15, 1946, a native of Pulaski, died in an accident on her much loved farm in Wytheville, on Tuesday, June 25, 2013. A passionate teacher, Sharon touched the lives of thousands over her 36 year career with New River Community College. Through her students, her influence lives on.

Living life to the fullest, some her interests included: music, horses, beekeeping and quilting. She competed in badminton and golf tournaments. She lives on in our hearts as a wonderful, encouraging mother, grandmother and aunt, a patient and loving sister, and a friend who was supportive and fun. Sharon cheerfully dedicated herself to the service of others. Her joyful spirit and infectious laughter uplifted her numerous friends and family. She loved travel and adventure, and now we support her as she embarks on her ultimate journey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Pauline Ratcliff; brother, David Ratcliff Jr.; and grandson, Dylan Vaughan.

She is survived by her children, John and Cole Semones, of New Castle, Jodi Semones and Mike Bagarus, of Spring Hill, Fla.; grandchildren, Cody Semones, Joe Reynolds, of Sharpsburg, Ga.; also by her brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Ruth Ratcliff, of Claytor Lake; nieces and nephews, Jill, Gary and Bailey Hostetter, Mark Ratcliff and Justin Ratcliff.

The family will celebrate Sharon’s life at Stevens Funeral Home in Pulaski, receiving friends Friday at 5 p.m. with a service at 7 p.m. with the Rev. Cindy Privette officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society , 2840 Electric Road, Suite 106A, Roanoke, VA 24018 or the American Diabetes Association , ATT: ADA Web, P. O. Box 1833, Merrifield, VA 22116.

Arrangements by Stevens Funeral Home, Pulaski.