Ashland, KY - Viva B. Ratliff, age 95, of Ashland, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her residence on Dec. 31, 2025. She entered this world on Oct. 23, 1930, in Huntington, West Virginia, born to the late Thomas Edwin and Viva Isabel Nelson Keating. Viva's journey through life was marked by her unwavering kindness, her commitment to her family and friends, and her enduring work ethic.

She was a member of Unity Baptist Church in Ashland for 60+ years and loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Viva's life was one rich with love and dedication, especially to her family. She was a beacon of strength and warmth to all who knew her. Her marriage to Charles H. Ratliff was a testament to partnership and mutual respect, lasting until his passing in 2001. Together, they built a family founded on love and understanding. Though she was preceded in death by her daughter, Sheree Laurer, four brothers, and two sisters, Viva's nurturing spirit continues to live on through her surviving family members. She is survived by daughter Janet Creech and husband Jeff of Lexington, Kentucky, beloved nieces and nephews, and a multitude of friends who will greatly miss her.

Viva was a sales associate for more than 50 years at JCPenney and worked for a time at Thrift Drug. She could do math in her head like a whiz and make change without the assistance of a calculator in the days before smartphones. After she retired, Viva was blessed and excited when someone recognized her from her JCPenney days. She looked forward to dining out with friends, and one of her favorite things to do was visit with her neighbors.

She was a dedicated University of Kentucky Wildcats football and basketball fan and enjoyed every game, regardless of the outcome. Viva had a giving heart and was witty and funny without trying.

Funeral services will be held at Steen Funeral Home-13th Street Chapel on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026. at 1 p.m. with entombment to follow at Rose Hill Burial Park Mausoleum. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Wednesday from noon until service time at 1 p.m.

Friends may make contributions in her memory to Unity Baptist Church, 2320 29th Street, Ashland, Kentucky, 41101.

Online condolences may be made to www.steenfuneralhome.com