Margaret Jean Ratliff Burch was reunited in heaven with her husband and parents on October 10, 2017.

Born September 21, 1932, her parents were Preston E. Ratliff and Margaret B. Ratliff, both of whom predeceased her. The love of her life, John G. "Jack" Burch also predeceased her. Jean received a two-year degree from Mary Baldwin College and then transferred to UNC Chapel Hill where her blood quickly turned light blue (Go Heels!). She remained a diehard Tar Heel for the rest of her life. Jean also received a Master's degree from USC, Columbia. She enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a teacher, always caring for and putting the needs of others first. Her warm and caring personality, smiles, laughter, and sense of humor impacted and touched everyone she came in contact with, and Jean never met a stranger. She also had a great love for all animals and will be greatly missed by her two surviving cats. Her greatest pride, joy, and love however, was in and for her family. They were always first and foremost in her thoughts, cares, and priorities, and she loved them with all her heart. Jean was a dedicated, loving, and cherished wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by her sister, Robin Tennyson (Jim); her children, Preston R. "Rad" Burch (Sarena), John G. Burch, Jr. and his special friend, Laurie Thompson, and Alison B. Lynch (Don); grandchildren, Sumner S. Burch and her fiancé, Gill Herzberg, M. Preston Lynch, and E. Grace Lynch; blood niece Hannah Krause (Michael); grandniece, Zelda Krause; brother-in-law, Billy Burch (Gaye); eight nieces and nephews on her husband's side to whom she was affectionately known as Aunt Margaret Jean; adopted niece, Jessica Collins (Ronnie) and her children, Jackson and Eliza; special friends, Jenny Boggs (Scott), who was her caregiver over her last years and to whom the family is most grateful, Susan S. Burch, Judy Harris and Gwen Brown. She was also predeceased by her brother-in-law, June Burch (Rebecca). Finally, she is survived by many beloved cousins and other family members.

Memorials may be made to St. Mark United Methodist Church, 550 Hwy 72 ByPass NW, Greenwood, SC 29649; Greenwood County Humane Society, PO Box 49776, Greenwood, SC 29649, or a charity of one's choice. Online condolences can be made at www.harleyfuneralhome.com .

A funeral ceremony will be held at St. Mark UMC on Monday, October 23, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will follow the service.

Heaven is celebrating, but this world is a sadder place. Jean will be deeply missed by all her family and friends, but her selfless love, zest for life, sense of humor, and energetic spirit will always live on in their hearts and memories. A reunion will occur in heaven. If everyone were like Jean Burch, this world would be a better place. Finally, the family would like to thank Dr. Albores and the dedicated nurses and staff at Self Regional Hospital.