Lee Ella Ratcliff

Lee Ella Tedford Ratcliff, 100, of North Little Rock joined the saints like herself when she went to Heaven on Sunday, May 1, 2016. She was born December 16, 1915, to Ernest Walker and Cora King Tedford in Lonoke, Arkansas. She graduated from North Little Rock High School and Arkansas State Teachers College (now UCA) and earned her Master's Degree in Early Childhood Development from UALR. A gifted teacher for 35 years, she was a member of NEA, AEA, CTA, and ADK International Honorary Sorority for Women Educators, as well as a recipient of a lifetime PTA award. Lee Ella was also a member of the Alpha Kappa Chapter of the Sigma Epsilon social sorority and the Square-Rounders square dance club. She was a nature lover who could grow anything and nurture any animal. She was an excellent seamstress and an active traveler, visiting almost every state, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean. Lee Ella was a longtime member of Park Hill Baptist Church who was preceded in death by her parents and brother, C.W. Tedford. She is survived by her devoted daughter, LeElla Ratcliff, two nephews, Tim and Woody Tedford and their families, and two very spoiled cats. Her daughter lovingly remembers her kind heart and gentle spirit, her sage advice and sacrificial ways. "Mom was the consummate model of parental guidance and support who cannot be thanked enough for the lifestyle she provided and the selfless example she set. I will remain eternally grateful for the positive role my precious mother played in my life." Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 4th at Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home with funeral service in their chapel at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, May 5th. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.