JOY RATLIFF Obituary

RATLIFF, JOY WILKERSON Joy Wilkerson Ratliff, formerly Gladys Joy Wright, born on August 4, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan, passed away at the age of 81 on August 24, 2011 in San Diego, CA. Joy had three children: Craig Carter (Marcia), Candice Carter Ph.D. and Kim Weitzman (Larry). She was the grandmother to Joe, Samantha, Alexander, Mitchell, Cris, and Anthony. Our mother graduated in 1948 from Herbert Hoover High School in San Diego and then attended the University of California, Los Angeles. Joy became an entertainer in movies, television, U.S.O Vietnam, then race car driver and eventually an author. She was proud of her involvement in the Marine Corps League, San Diego Swing Dance Club, and Kiwanis. Needless to say "mother/grandmother" had a colorful life. On Saturday, August 27th, at Unified Veterans Memorial Church at Balboa Park S.D, Joy's name was read with those of the veterans who passed away in the same month, including Navy Seal Team #6. We wish to thank the Veterans Journal. Joy was cremated according to her wishes. A military burial for her in San Diego is scheduled for October 22, 2011 at one of the national cemeteries.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Oct. 9, 2011.