Cheryllyn L. Ratliff

Cheryllyn Lee Ratliff, 79, transitioned peacefully on October 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with heart disease. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Flossie Lee Miller and Levi Bryant Sr., she is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Henderson “Baby Brother” Ratliff, and her cherished mother, Flossie.

She was preceded in death by her father and siblings: Venetta Bryant-Smith, Phillip “Doc” Bryant, Levi “Butch” Bryant Jr., Vonzell “Captain Vonzell” Bryant, Bishop Leroy Bryant, and Joseph Bryant.

Cheryllyn grew up in Kansas City, MO, off of 23rd & Prospect. It was there that she fell in love with her sweetheart, Henderson Lee Ratliff—the love of her life since the age of 13. They were united in marriage on July 5, 1963. On July 5, 2023, they joyfully celebrated 60 years of marriage. Cheryllyn lovingly referred to him as “Rat,” and he referred to her as “Hoss”, terms of endearment that reflected their deep and lasting bond.

Cheryllyn was immensely proud of the family they built together. She and Henderson raised two beloved children, Lynise Ratliff-Connor and Robert J. Ratliff. Her greatest joy came from being a grandmother—her grandchildren were the light of her life. They affectionately called her “Grandmother.” She doted on and adored Montel Ratliff, Brittany Connor, Bryson Stricker, Symone Grantham, Brandon Ratliff, Mariah Connor, Kyle Ratliff, and Aaliyah Ratliff. Her love extended even further to her great-grandchildren—Julius Wallace Jr., Ava Wallace, and Saliyah Kamau—each of whom she cherished deeply and lovingly spoiled.

Throughout her life, Cheryllyn was a hardworking and dedicated professional who held several positions that showcased her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Early in her career, she worked at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant before moving on to serve with the Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority. Her longest and most distinguished service was with the U.S. Postal Service. She began as a clerk and, through determination and diligence, rose to the position of safety officer. In this role, Cheryllyn was responsible for helping ensure a safe and healthy work environment across postal facilities in MO and KS. She conducted inspections, addressed safety concerns, and provided crucial safety and health training to managers and supervisors—ensuring compliance with OSHA standards.

Cheryllyn faithfully served in this role for 28 years until her well-earned retirement in 2004. Her legacy within the USPS is one of professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of her colleagues.

Cheryllyn was a devout Christian who deeply loved the Lord. Her spiritual journey began at a young age when she was baptized and became a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Kansas City, Missouri, under the leadership of Rev. Isaiah Hilkiah Henderson Jr.

She remained active in her faith throughout her life. Later, she and her family joined Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church, also in Kansas City, under the leadership of Rev. A.L. Johnson Sr. At Zion Grove, Cheryllyn joyfully used her gifts to serve the Lord—singing in the choir and contributing her time and passion as a member of the Civil Rights Committee. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and shaping the way she loved and served others.

Cheryllyn found joy in life’s simple pleasures—piecing together puzzles, completing word searches, and keeping up with technology as a proud, tech-savvy grandmother. Whether on her computer, iPad, Apple Watch, or the newest iPhone, she loved staying connected with family and friends. Although she was a true Kansas City Royals and Chiefs fan, she was happiest cheering from the sidelines as her grandchildren played their many sports, especially when watching Montel excel in wheelchair basketball and track.

Memories of Cheryllyn will be lovingly cherished by her daughter, Lynise Ratliff-Connor (Courtney); son, Robert J. Ratliff (Susan); grandsons, Montel Ratliff, Bryson Stricker, Brandon Ratliff, and Kyle Ratliff; granddaughters, Brittany Connor, Symone Grantham, Mariah Connor, and Aaliyah Ratliff; great-grandson, Julius Wallace Jr.; great-granddaughters, Ava Wallace and Saliyah Kamau; godson, Floyd “Sparky” Fowler (Tina); and like-a-son, Reginald (Reggie) Woods (Sheryl). She will also be fondly remembered by sisters-in-law Linda Ervin, Ann (Bobbie) Chambers, Veronica (Beb) Baker, Joyce Christanio, and Creamola Pledger; brothers-in-law Troy Carson, Tayro Christanio, and William Smith; best friend Janice McGee; dear friend Lorine Hill; sisters Hortense Willis (Mark) and Anna Clay (Rodney); brother Robert Bryant (Jessie); and a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Date of