Annaley Cecile Ratliff

“Sometimes, the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” ~ Winnie the Pooh  Annaley Cecile Ratliff was born October 14, 2017, and left us January 1, 2020. Though her time on earth was brief, she left an indelible impression and secured her immortality by the difference she made in our lives. Annaley loved rising early, dancing, watching her favorite TV show, Bubble Guppies, and transforming into a fairy princess. When she donned her costume, she was not playing dress-up; she BECAME Princess Annaley. She was quiet by nature, but Annaley conveyed volumes in few words. To understand, one only had to watch her expression as she enjoyed her favorites, mac & cheese and chocolate milk. She lived fully and loved fiercely.  Her memory is cherished by her mother, Erin Friedman Ratliff; father, Kenneth Ratliff, Jr.; big sister, Audrey Lorraine Ratliff; maternal grandparents Hanna & Greg Friedman; paternal grandparents, Ella & Kenneth Ratliff; maternal great grandparents, Cecile & Dwane Murphy and Edwina & Sam Friedman; paternal great grandmothers, Ernestine Gay and Estelle Ratliff; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and countless others who adored her.  She was predeceased by her maternal great grandparents, Peggy Collins and Billy Smith; paternal great grandfathers, E. J. Gay and Willie Ratliff; and great uncle, Kerry Friedman.  Those who wish to honor Annaley’s memory may do so by donating to CASA of Central Louisiana, 1200 Keyser Avenue, Suite B, Natchitoches, LA 71457 (www.casanat.org).  “If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart. I’ll stay there forever.” ~ Winnie the Pooh