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( Bluefield)—Jerry McConnell had a keen understanding and appreciation for the importance of an education. As a successful businessman, the Bluefield State College graduate spent much of his time making a positive difference in the lives of those he met, encouraging youth and young adults to invest their time in lifelong learning. In the months following his death, two men whose family had grown to know and deeply appreciate McConnell’s love of life and learning have made donations to BSC in the hopes of establishing a scholarship program in his honor.
“Jerry was a special person,” noted John David Ratliff, a former Bluefield resident who is Chief Financial Officer for Quintiles, a North Carolina-based clinical research firm.
Ratliff’s brother, Ray, an attorney who serves Chief Counsel to the West Virginia Senate, echoed that sentiment. “Jerry was very interested in education,” Ratliff recalled. “He was always taking courses for self-improvement and professional enhancement. He also spent a lot of time with younger people, encouraging them to continue their education.” McConnell’s genuine concern for others was exemplified by the large number of people (more than 1300) who attended his funeral, Ratliff said.
The Ratliffs’ contribution to BSC through the Neighborhood Investment Program will provide a way for McConnell’s life to be recognized and saluted in the future. “Our first priority was to honor Jerry,” John David Ratliff explained. “He and I talked about Bluefield State College often. He had a passion for BSC because he believed the education he received there helped him accomplish so much in his career.”
“The Ratliffs’ gifts provide a foundation that, with the help of the financial support of others, can grow into an endowed scholarship program capable of providing support for students, year after year,” observed Ray Guy, the BSC Foundation’s Fiscal Manager. Individuals and organizations interested in contributing toward this goal are encouraged to contact Guy (304-327-4334).
“Jerry and his family have been round-the-clock caretakers for our parents.” Ray Ratliff continued. “The entire McConnell family participated.” They helped Ratliff’s father, Ray (who passed away on March 3, 2004) for several years, and they still provide round-the-clock care for Ratliff’s mother, Mrs. Ellen White Ratliff, who is able to attend church, travel to the mall, and enjoy life. The McConnell family meets nearly every Sunday at Ellen Ratliff’s house and divides up the 24/7 duties for each day of the coming week.
“Jerry was part of our family, and we are grateful for this opportunity to honor him,” Ratliff said.
January 30, 2006
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