Kenneth Wayne Ratley

Kenneth Wayne Ratley of Fayetteville died Friday, September 27, 2024, at the age of 71.

He was born August 20, 1953.

He will be fondly remembered by family and friends for his love of playing the guitar and singing bluegrass music. He was a member of both Carolina Sonshine and Carolina Tradition for several years. He cherished time spent with his family, especially enjoying cookouts and playing music together.

He also loved working in his yard and planting flowers. Known for his love of storytelling, he could always bring a smile to those around him with his humor and warmth. He dedicated over 14 years to Rogers and Breece Funeral Home, delivering compassionate and heartfelt services to his community in their time of need. His warmth and music will be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Grady Ratley Sr. and mother, Betty Matthews; brother, Johnny Ratley; grandparents, Andrew and Maggie Ratley; stepbrother, Glenn Matthews; grandparents, Bryant and Eva Pate and his stepfather, Willie Matthews.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Suzi; son, Andy (Angie) Ratley; granddaughter, Jennifer Ratley; brothers, Grady (Teresa) Ratley Jr., Steve (Mary) Ratley; sister, Barbara (Carlos) Bass of Shallotte, and his four nieces and three nephews.

 The family will receive friends from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Rogers and Breece Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 5 p.m. in the Rogers and Breece Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Heart Association in his honor.

Dextedre Dean

Dextedre Dean died September 21, 2024, and went home to be with his Heavenly Father, at the age of 40.

He was born November 9, 1983.

The funeral will be private.

Esther McRae

Esther McRae, a native of Raeford for most of her life, died Sunday, September 22, 2024, and was called to her rest while residing in St. Peters, Missouri where she lived with family, at the age of 94.

She was born September 2, 1930.

She was the wife of the Late James Walter McRae Sr. and mother of eight children: Alice Stewart, the late Carrie Purcell; James McRae Jr., Beatrice Ray, Gloria Stephen, Leo McRae, Larry McRae and Debra McRae.

Her remains are entrusted with Buie Funeral Home located at 543 Vass Rd in Raeford where family will receive visitations from 2-5 p.m. Friday, October 4, 2024.

Going home services will be held at noon Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Freedom Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. Immediately after the interment, a repast will be held in the Church's Fellowship Hall for family and friends.