Evelyn Louise Ratlief

Evelyn Louise Ratlief, 82, died on January 12, 2025 after an extended illness. She was born on October 24, 1942 in Cumberland, Maryland to Robert Emmet and Catherine Robertson Atkinson. Evelyn was predeceased by her sister, Arlene Izquierdo, in April 2023 and her loving husband, Roy Ratlief, in February 2017. She is survived by her eldest sister, Nadeane Gordon of Gaithersburg; her niece, Bonnie Gurley Kunkel; her nephew, Barry Gurley; and her grand-nieces, Erin Kunkel and Gwendolyn Gleysteen.

 Evelyn graduated from Allegany High School and pursued a career as hair stylist. In 1978, she had the distinct honor of being invited to Camp David during the Peace Accords, where she styled the hair of Prime Minister Menachem Begin’s wife.

 Together with her first husband Lewis, she owned and operated a liquor store in Baltimore. During this time, Evelyn lived in Frederick, often visiting her sister Nadeane and her beloved aunts and cousins in Western Maryland.

 In 1991, Evelyn married Roy Ratlief, introduced through mutual friends. Together, they shared a special bond with Roy’s granddaughter, Carey Ward (Perlozzo), born just two months before their wedding. Evelyn and Roy cultivated lasting friendships in Maryland and Florida, where they lived for 12 years, enjoying golf, card games, and the company of their adored poodles: Bo-Bo, Tigger, and Tigger Two.

 Affectionately known as “Evie” or “Louise,” she was fun and charming — turning a mundane story into a wild and hilarious tale with the skill of a comic. Evelyn will be remembered for her mischievous twinkle and warm heart.