Billy Gene Ratcliff, 76, of Columbia, passed away Wednesday, August 2, 2017. Born in Logan, West Virginia, he was the son of the late William A. and Helen Brumfield Crytzer. He was raised in a tight-knit family with five aunts and uncles who adored him, many who worked hard in the coal mines to make sure he never had to. He moved to Columbia in 1956, his senior year in high school, where he met a favorite substitute teacher who introduced him to her daughter, who became his best friend.

After graduating from Eau Claire High School, he enlisted in the Navy, where he proudly served on the U.S.S. R.A. Owens, a Destroyer Escort which cruised both Guantanamo Bay and the Mediterranean. After discharge, he returned to Columbia, where he attended a Ray Charles concert at the Township Auditorium, and was delighted to reconnect with the substitute teacher's daughter, Edna Zobel, who was seated one row behind. Thus began their courtship resulting in a 54 year marriage. Billy graduated from Palmer College and worked for Westinghouse Nuclear Fuel Division as a purchasing agent for 36 years before retiring in 2010. While at Westinghouse, he served as the President of the Golf League, and, along with Edna, planned many fun outings that are still talked about to this day. He was a charter member of Jamil Shrine Temple.

In addition to Edna, Billy is survived by his two daughters, Laura LaPierre, her husband Ben and their daughter Kendall of Lexington; and Sharon Biggers, her husband David and their son Logan, who was named to honor his grandfather, also of Lexington; and his cherished four-legged companion, Maddie. He was the consummate Daddy, "adopting" many of Laura and Sharon's friends to his heart and providing them guidance, support and love.

An adored father, grandfather and friend, his kindness and compassion knew no limits. Billy spent many years coaching both daughters' softball teams. He was a positive influence on many young ladies in the community, instilling the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and integrity. He proudly continued this tradition by assistant coaching some of Kendall's teams as she began playing. Billy also shared his love of golf with Logan, who has played competitively from a young age. He proudly cheered on his favorite golfer at many state and regional tournaments and high school matches. His love for his family and friends was matched only by his lifelong love for his beloved Gamecocks.

Billy was extremely strong in his faith. As a member of College Place United Methodist Church, he served as Head Usher and on the Finance Committee.

The service will be held 2 o'clock, Sunday, August 6th, at College Place United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday, from 5 until 7 o'clock, at Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, 5202 Colonial Drive, Columbia. Serving as pallbearers will be, Steve Zobel, Jim Davis, Carter Asbill, Craig Biggers, Jody Crawford and David Morrison.

Memorials may be made to College Place United Methodist Church, 4801 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC 29203.