Julieanne Maria Miller Ratliff

Julieanne Maria Miller Ratliff, a cherished educator and devoted family matriarch, passed away on August 30, 2025, cradled in the love of her family at her residence. Born in Seymour, Indiana on February 21, 1954, Julieanne's life was a tapestry richly woven with the threads of kindness, warmth, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others.

For over 49 years, she passionately dedicated herself to teaching Home Economics at Seymour High School, where her students were not just pupils to her but extensions of her heart. Julieanne poured her soul into each lesson, believing deeply in the capabilities of every young person who walked through her classroom door. Her classroom was a haven of encouragement, where she made even the shyest students feel as though they were the most important person in the room. Her legacy will linger in the lives she touched and the generations of students who carry her lessons forward.

Julieanne’s journey through life was marked by love—love for her family, love for her profession, and love for cooking, which became her heartfelt language. She thrived in the kitchen, crafting international dishes, comfort food, and beloved country recipes that brought family and friends together around the table. Her culinary talents were not just about food; they were about forging connections, creating memories, and making everyone who entered her home feel enveloped in warmth and hospitality.

Music also played a significant role in her life; she found joy in singing and the camaraderie that music fostered. Her spirit shone brightest in the company of her loved ones, especially her twelve grandchildren, whom she supported wholeheartedly in their adventures and passions. Julieanne’s vibrant personality was characterized by her gentle encouragement, her ability to see the best in people, and her innate talent for making others feel valued and appreciated.

She graduated from Seymour High School in 1972 and pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Ball State University in 1976, a foundation that set her on a path of devotion to shaping young minds. Julieanne shared a beautiful life with her late husband, Rick Dean Ratliff, for 47 treasured years before his passing. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, support, and a commitment to their family.

Julieanne now reunites with those who have gone before her: her beloved parents, George Miller Sr. and Harriet Brachmyre Miller; her brother, George Miller Jr.; her sister, Madeline Prisco; and the love of her life, Rick. Those who knew her carry forth the light she shared, the lessons she taught, and the unconditional love she embodied.

She is survived by her sons, Justin Ratliff and his wife Jennifer of Columbus, Indiana; Joshua Ratliff and his wife Rebekah of Seymour, Indiana; Jedidiah Ratliff of Seymour, Indiana; Monte McGinnis of Seymour, Indiana; and her daughter, Riley Day and her husband Tommy of Indianapolis, Indiana. Her sister, Dena Demaree and her husband  David of Danville, Kentucky, also survive her, along with her twelve beloved grandchildren, who will forever be reminded of her nurturing spirit and infinite love.

Visitation will be held at Christensen Family Funeral Home in Seymour, Indiana on September 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on September 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A funeral service will follow on September 18, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the same location.

Julieanne Maria Miller Ratliff leaves behind an enduring legacy of love, compassion, and dedication that will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege to know her. She will be forever missed, but her spirit lives on in the hearts and memories of her family, friends, and countless students whose lives she changed forever.

The family requests that memorials be directed to FAC’s Department at Seymour High School.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.