Margaret Phillips Ratchford

Mrs. Ratchford, 94, of Charlotte, NC passed away on February 17, 2015 at Summit Place of South Park. She was born on November 19, 1920 in Lowell, NC to the late Frank David Phillips and Mary Whitlaw Phillips. In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Fred L. Ratchford, Sr.; brother, John Phillips; sisters, esther McKnight, Elizabeth Phillips and Mary Hamilton. Like so many their age Margaret and Fred married during WWII and started a family late in the war. They spent time in Greensboro and Atlanta before settling in 1955 in Charlotte, where they became devoted members of Avondale Presbyterian Church. Margaret loved the church, particularly her circle and Sunday school and was honored to receive the Presbyterian Women's Honorary Life Membership Award in 1993. She became known as "Nanny" after grandchildren arrived in the '70's. She is survived by son, Fred, Jr. (Suzanne) of Virginia; daughter, Mary Bass (Wayne) of Charlotte and her five grandchildren, Christoper Ratchford (Julie); Matthew Ratchford (Samantha); Marlene Lange (Chris), all of Virginia; Ashley Bass Brietz (Jay) and Lindsey Bass of Charlotte and her ten great-grandchildren: Addison, Jack, Brett and Aiden Ratchford; MacKenzie, Isabelle and Austin Lange; Jake and Emily Brietz and Sullivan Dill. Also surviving are brother-in-law, Harry Hamilton of Raleigh, and sisters-in-law Christine Clemmer and Mary Brown Robinson of Dallas, NC and numerous nieces, nephews, their children and grandchildren. Nanny loved baking, particularly with daughter Mary and grandchildren for the holidays. Pastry was her specialty and she regularly made for family dinners one of the best apple pies on the planet; she was a very talented seamstress and could make anything at her sewing machine. Margaret enjoyed playing bridge with friends and relished time with family and grandchildren, especially the Sunday and holiday gatherings with extended family in Gaston County. She lovingly and tirelessly cared for her Fred during his long illness. A true lady has left us and will be sorely missed. A service to celebrate her life will be held at 11:00AM, Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Avondale Presbyterian Church with the family receiving friends following the service. Memorials may be made to Avondale Presbyterian Church, 2821 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209. The family appreciates the loving care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Charlotte. Arrangements are in the care of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 E. Blvd., Charlotte, NC. Please share condolences online at www.hankinsandwhittington.com.