Joe Ratledge Sr.

Joe Ratledge Sr., age 92, of Loudon, passed away surrounded by his family on June 24, 2026.

Born and raised in Loudon, Tennessee, Joe was a graduate of Loudon High School, Class of 1951. He was an avid University of Tennessee and St. Louis Cardinals fan. He enjoyed working on antique Corvairs and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Joe was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Loudon, where he faithfully served in many roles, including Chairman of the Deacons, and taught Sunday School classes for all ages. He loved listening to Redskin Radio and was known for his raspberry sweet tea and Mayfield Moose Tracks ice cream for dinner because, as he would say, “They make a pill for that.”

He was preceded in death by his wife, Imogene Ratledge, and Bettye “Mamaw” Ratledge, whom he reunited with at their 50th class reunion; his parents, William Bert and Myrtle Ratledge; sisters, Mary Helen Collins and Ruth Ratledge; and brother, Chig Ratledge.

Joe is survived by his son, Eddie Ratledge and wife, Tiffany; grandchildren, Haley Bibee and husband, Trevor, and Jake Ratledge and wife, Desera; along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his caregivers, Samantha Bartolomeo, Sally Jones, and Leanna Beal, for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church Loudon or Loudon High School Athletics.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Loudon Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Richard Everett officiating. The graveside service will be held Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Loudon County Memorial Gardens. Family and friends attending the services are encouraged to wear orange or Tennessee attire to celebrate Joe's final gameday.