Nancy Lee Ratliff, 65, of Wellington, died Sunday, January 6, 2019, at the Mercy Regional Medical Center following a month-long struggle with numerous health issues. She was supported by her family and friends during her illness and at the time of her death. She was a lifelong educator and avid reader. She enjoyed anything "books", listening to 60's and 70's Classic Rock (especially Neil Diamond), playing trivia, nature, movies, virtually any food with "extra onions", flowers, her beloved cat Buttons, and spending time with her husband Ayers. The couple spent nearly every day together throughout their 22 year marriage. Nancy taught for 35 years at Westwood Elementary School where she was a beloved and respected teacher by her students, parents, coworkers and community. She never forgot one of her hundreds of students and she kept in contact with many of them long after they were no longer in her classroom. Nancy helped to start the Westwood K-Kids Club and remained an active leader in the club until her death. She was also an active volunteer for the Dolly Parton Imagination Initiative and was the Southern Lorain County Coordinator for the organization. She began and operated a "little library" in her front yard for the past 6 years providing reading material to children throughout the Wellington Community. Early in her teaching career she won a major award for her activities in her Just Say No Club. She was also a member of the Wellington Kiwanis and Eagles and was a proud Democrat. She was born on November 14, 1953, in Sandusky, Ohio, to the late Delwin and Nellie Glover. She was also preceded in death by her brother and sister. At the age of 6, Nancy's family moved to Long Boat Key, Florida. After graduating from Manatee High School, Nancy attended South Florida State University where she received her bachelor's degree in education. After graduation Nancy returned to the Buckeye State to live and begin her teaching career. She married her husband Ayers Ratliff on July 16, 1996 in Clintwood, Virginia. He had four children born prior to this union, Heather Ratliff, of Columbus, Ayers (Heidi) Ratliff Jr, of Marion, Amanda Ratliff, of Columbus, and Ryan (Laura) Ratliff of Sheffield Lake; she is also survived by 9 grandchildren, Dusty, Del, Emily, Noah, Ethan, Zara, Annie, Maxwell, and Bentley. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January, 10, form 2-4 and 5-7p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 127 Park Place, Wellington, 44090, where services will be held on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. Pastor Paul Wilson will officiate and burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Wellington. The family asks that if a contribution is preferred to flowers, those donations be made to Westwood K-Kids, 305 Union Street, Wellington, 44090. Condolences and fond memories may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.

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