Jane Elizabeth Ratcliff

Jane Elizabeth Ratcliff, 81, went to be with the Lord on Monday, May 2, 2016. Jane was born on August 28th, 1934 in Atwood, Kansas during the Great Depression. She was the first daughter of Ona Mae (Minnick) Ratcliff and Dewey James Ratcliff. She graduated with a Bachelors degree in music from the University of Kansas at Lawrence where she pledged to the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. Jane was certified in Texas Music Education, UTEP. She also completed course work at Phillips University in Oklahoma, University of Hawaii and University of Colorado. Her career began by building a music program for 23 schools in New Westminster, Canada. She was an inspiration to her students and touched many lives with her smile and passion for teaching and music. Jane served as a teacher, supervisor, taught music and directed many music programs for the El Paso School District from 1967-1997. She was highly involved in the community with over 150 organizations benefiting from her talent and leadership. She served countless boards for city and community affairs and attended numerous Republican Conventions. Her selfless service and dedication were evident in the passion she had for the causes she supported. Jane is survived by her oldest son, Robert Ratcliff (wife, Christa Rotenberry), of Austin, TX., Three grandsons; Greyson, Carson, Hudson, her youngest son; James Ratcliff of El Paso, TX., and her beloved pets, Coco, Ollie, Ozzie, and Cleo. She is preceded in death by sister, Anne Schalker and her parents. Jane’s love for music, teaching, and helping others were reflected in the successes of others. She is now able to conduct a choir of angels in heaven! In lieu of flowers please send donations to: Rio Grande Area Agency on Aging, First Baptist Church of El Paso, and Humane Society of El Paso. Visitation will be from 5:00PM-9:00PM Sunday, May 15, 2016 at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass. Memorial Service will be at 10:00AM Monday, May 16, 2016 at First Baptist Church. Interment at the family plot in Atwood, Kansas.