Carolyn Sue Ratcliff Sandel

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carolyn Sue Ratcliff Sandel, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who left us on December 12, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on November 19, 1949, to Loyd and Shirley Lebeaux Ratcliff. Carolyn brought warmth and light into the lives of all who knew her. Carolyn grew up in Natchez, Mississippi, where she completed her high school education before furthering her studies with an associate’s degree from Draughon’s Business College in Jackson. Her career began as a receptionist at the Orthopedic Center in Natchez, followed by a position at the Mississippi State University Infirmary. She dedicated many years of service as a medical receptionist, most notably at the Southwest Louisiana Women’s Clinic, where she remained until her well-deserved retirement in 2005.

 A devoted Roman Catholic, Carolyn embraced life with relentless passion. Devoted to her community, Carolyn volunteered at local schools and coached recreational sports, always making time to support others and uplift those around her. She had a unique ability to connect with people, never meeting a stranger and always ready to lend a hand or share a meal. Carolyn's spirit thrived in the joy of family gatherings, fishing and hunting trips, and cherished moments spent at the family cabin on Black River Lake.

 Those left to cherish to her memories are, husband, Patrick Lloyd Sandel, Sr., their children, Patrick Jr. (spouse Larissa), Michael (spouse Cathryn), and Kerri (spouse John Frantz). Her love extended to her grandchildren: Mercedez, Collin, Taylor, Demi, Marty, Savannah, William, Cathryn Grace, and John Patrick, and to her seven great-grandchildren. her brother, Roger Ratcliff of Meadville, MS, and a loving family that will carry her memories close to their hearts. 

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 12:10pm at  St. Joseph's Catholic Church in DeRidder, Louisiana. Father Wayne LeBleu will officiate the service. Burial will take place after mass at Lewis Cemetery in DeRidder, LA. Visitation will be held a Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Wednesday December 17, 2025 from 5:00pm until 8:00pm. A rosary will be recited by the St. Joseph Catholic Daughters at 6:00pm. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the local chapter of the American Diabetes Association in Carolyn’s memory, reflecting her commitment to nurturing and supporting children in her community. Carolyn Sandel will be deeply missed, but her generous spirit and the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.