Warren Theodore Ratcliff Jr

Warren Theodore Ratcliff Jr. age 59, passed on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in Young Harris, Georgia. Warren was born on October 4, 1965, in Lakeland, Florida to the late Mr. and Mrs. Warren and Patricia (Sparkman) Ratcliff. He is preceded in death by his above-mentioned parents and Carla Robertson (Kristine’s mother). He is loved by his life-time partner Kristine Robertson; sister Leslie Ratcliff Jones; and nephews Tyler Jones and Tim Jones. He was loved and admired by his Ratcliff and Robertson families along with many extended family and friends. 

Warren, whom many knew as Teddy, graduated from Lakeland High School in 1984. He went on to study Management Information Systems, Accounting and Finance at Florida State University. Teddy traveled the world as a consultant for various corporations, spending the last 13 years at Capgemini, as a Principal Solutions Architect in Global Energy and Utility. As a leader in his company, he traveled internationally to assist clients, while making friends and enjoying different cultures and cuisines along the way. After several years together in Florida, Teddy and Kris moved to Young Harris Georgia where they enjoyed living in their beautiful mountain community.

Teddy was a natural leader, very diligent and dedicated, and he loved music. While at Lakeland High School, he was a leader with the LHS Marching Band, and he graduated as Salutatorian. During his time at FSU, he was a Section Leader with the Marching Chiefs, with many of whom he maintained lifelong friendships.

Teddy was known for his great sense of humor and kindness. He was very patient and put a lot of thought into everything he did. Along with his many personal relationships, Teddy loved animals, always talking to the squirrels, feeding the birds off the back porch of their mountain home, and spoiling their dog Bella with lots of treats. Teddy had many interests including photography, woodworking, opal and gem cutting, and jewelry making. Teddy first discovered his love of lapidary while rockhounding with his father and uncle in his younger years. He rekindled this love when he met Kristine, who shared his passion as the owner of a gem and rocks store. After moving to Young Harris, Teddy generously donated his time to the non-profit, William Holland School of Lapidary Arts, where Kristine serves as the Executive Director.

Teddy had a passion for learning, especially science. He always had a warm and encouraging word. He took joy in supporting Kristine. He was a caring and loving partner to her, and they built a beautiful life together.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to William Holland School of Lapidary Arts at 230 Lapidary Lane, Young Harris, GA 30582 or www.lapidaryschool.org.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 11 th at St. Paul Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 4450 Harden Blvd, at 5:30 pm in Lakeland, FL. Please join us for Teddy’s favorite foods and wine, sharing stories and music to celebrate his wonderful life. Flowers may be delivered to the church before 4pm on Friday. An intimate celebration will also be held at their home in North Georgia on April 5, 2025 at 5pm, for his William Holland School family and friends. Please email for information, kristine@lapidaryschool.org.