Christopher “Chris” Keith Ratley, our loving husband, father, pastor, and friend, finished his spiritual marathon and ran into the arms of our Savior on Friday, July 3rd, 2026. Chris was born on May 5, 1971 in Magnolia, AR. He is preceded in death by his parents, Sara “Nana” and Morris “Papa” Ratley, and his brother, David Ratley.

Chris attended Heber Springs High School, was accepted to Ouachita Baptist University and graduated with a Bachelors in Music, and received a Master of Arts in Religious Education from Southwestern Theological Seminary. From the beginning of his life and to his final breath, Chris modeled the love and grace of Jesus to anyone who was near him. His knowledge of Scripture provided reference for spontaneous conversations about Jesus, his care for the individual was so much that he would leave in the early morning for a stranger, and, most of all, the care he had for his family was never in question due to his constant hugs and reminders of love.

As a servant of the Lord, Chris served in numerous roles for the church, predominantly in student ministry, for over three decades in both Texas and Arkansas. From countless sermons on Wednesday nights, late-night crisis phone calls with students who needed him, sitting with students at lunch, and driving students on school buses with Brookland School District, Chris quickly became a friend to those he was near. While he would have the title of “pastor,” “friend,” “Mr. Chris,” or many others, he would humbly introduce himself as “just Chris.” He never took credit for his work, as his mission was to glorify the Lord in every word and deed. When not at the church, Chris would be cooking on his homemade smoker, picking up coffee for his family or a new student, listening to 2000’s Christian Rock music, or reading His Bible at home with a dog on his lap. Whatever day was coming next, he would not hesitate to tell someone to “Make it a great day.” Chris fiercely loved his girls, treasured every moment he spent with them, and never hesitated to give a genuine “I love you” with a heartfelt dad hug.

Chris is survived by his wife, Sheri Ratley, his children Katelyn and Bryce Paxson, Hailey Ratley, and Reagan Ratley, his siblings, Stephen “Chip” Ratley, Robin Jennice Ratley, and Patricia “Pat” Ratley, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A public visitation will be held from 9:00am - 11:00am at Journey Church in Jonesboro, AR on Saturday, July 11th, immediately followed by a celebration of life and worship service beginning at 11:00am. Following the service will be a private graveside ceremony held at Cleburne County Memorial Park Gardens in Heber Springs, AR.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to help cover the cost incurred for Chris’s family during his cancer diagnosis. Payments can be made to the Chris Ratley account at First Security Bank, 1341 Red Wolf Blvd., Jonesboro, AR 72401. The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time.