Biography: RICHARD HARKEY RATLEY, 65, of Little Rock, Arkansas, died Thursday, August 2, 2012. He was born July 8, 1947, in Little Rock. He was preceded in death by his parents, Selma and L.A. Ratley; and his son, Keye Ratley. After graduating from Hall High School in 1966, Ricky attended Kemper Military School in Boonville, Missouri, for one year, where he was enrolled in the Reserved Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program. He then attended the University of Arkansas, where he was enrolled in the ROTC program and a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. While at the University he enlisted in the National Guard. He graduated from the University in 1970 with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration. After graduating from the University, he worked for Loyal American Life Insurance Company for the majority of his professional career. During his retirement, he spent his time reading several books a week. Ricky was a devoted father, brother, and friend. He brought love and laughter into the lives of many. Though Ricky had many attributes, he will certainly be remembered for his skill of slalom water skiing and his uncanny ability to fix anything mechanical. He was also an avid lover of animals. As a child, his favorite pets were a raccoon named "Ricky Raccoon," a parakeet named "Tweety Bird," and his beloved dog, "Rusty Ratley." Ricky is survived by Rosie Ratley; his daughter, Lauren Anne Ratley; his son, William Tyler Ratley; his sister, Robin Ratley Smith; and his nieces, Piper Smith and Molly Querdibitty. Waiting for him in Heaven are his loyal companions, Calvin I, Calvin II, Roscoe, and Jake, all rescue dogs. We will love him and miss him forever. A visitation will be held Monday, August 13, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home followed by a memorial service at noon in the chapel at Ruebel. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander. Please make memorials to the Keye Ratley Memorial Fund at First Security Bank, at any branch location; or Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals (CARE), P.O. Box 7604, Little Rock, AR 72217-7604. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
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