Madelyn Ratcliffe

Madelyn Ratcliffe, a resident of Santa Barbara, passed away peacefully at 9:57 pm on March 15, 2025 surrounded by family. Born Madelyn Anne Bruske in Detroit, Michigan on April 15, 1942, she came to Santa Barbara in the early sixties and then moved on to Lompoc in 1981 where she worked at La Purisima school. She enjoyed many years there before returning to Santa Barbara. She is survived by her children, Bill (Heidi), Robert, Michael (Theresa), Catherine (Keith), Kevin (Amanda) and Mary (Cullen), cherished grandchildren: Patrick, Ashley, Katie, Chris, Zachary, Gavin, Elijah, Matthew, Kian and Finn and numerous nieces and nephews. Madelyn was predeceased in her death by her son Brian, siblings Thomas, Shirley, Dan, Mary Jane, Robert and Betty as well as her late husband, Silas Ratcliffe (“Sweetie Pie Si”).

Madelyn will be remembered for her love of music, sense of humor, appreciation for beauty in nature, wonderment of the world, and her love and devotion to her lord. Madelyn enjoyed taking care of her family, finding ways to make them smile, held the title for world champion thumb wrestler and never spoke unkindly of others. Enjoyed at her table were cabbage rolls, potato pancakes, “glop”, her famous lemon cake and oatmeal cookies.

Madelyn volunteered with pride, enthusiasm and a big smile. Many remember and appreciate her for time and effort given to St. Vincent De Paul Society, Catholic Charities, Prison Ministry, Showers of Blessing and the Santa Barbara Symphony Music Van.

Family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to friends and neighbors who came by with support and love in her final years and a special thank you to Evelyn Brownfield who brought communion each week and more.

Services will be held at San Roque church on April 15 at 10:30 am.