Dolores (O’Neal) Ratchford

Dolores Ratchford, 89, of Chattanooga went home to be with the Lord September 8, 2021 surrounded by her family.

A lifelong resident of Chattanooga Mrs. Ratchford was a graduate of City High school and Edmondson Business College.

She was an avid reader, bird watcher and storyteller.  A gifted musician, Mrs. Ratchford enjoyed playing the string base while at City High.

She was a member of CrossPath Church and formerly a member of East Lake Baptist Church where she had served as church organist, pianist and a member of the church choir and was a member of “The Avondale Girls”.

She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her love for her family and most importantly, she exemplified her love for the Lord by serving Him and sharing with others the story of Jesus.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. & Mrs. W.L. O'Neal; and her beloved husband, Daniel Carlton Ratchford.

She is survived by her children, Penny (Kenny) Sholl, Chattanooga; Kristi (Brian) Myatt, East Ridge; and Dan (Sharon) Ratchford, Chattanooga;  8 grandchildren, Scott Sholl, Carrie (Zack) Willmore, Patrick (Jessica) Sholl, Callie (Drew) Sholl-Burns, Brianne (Chris) Quarles, Keith (Heather) Myatt, Danna Myatt, and Alana Ratchford;  11 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 3 pm  Saturday, September 11th at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park with her grandson, Keith Myatt officiating.   Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to thank Kindred Hospice, Evelyn, Donna, & Debrenee with Home Comforts for all of their love and care.

You may share expressions of love to the Ratchford Family at www.heritagechattanooga.com

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to Shepherd’s Arms Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 16758, Chattanooga, TN  37416.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.