James (Jim) Ratliff wished for his donations to be directed to the SRA in his name, ensuring his legacy and passion for aviation would continue to inspire and support the community he cherished so much. He restored his first Stearman in 1992, saving it from a very rough state and transforming it into a beautiful stock Army Stearman.

Jim had an unwavering love for Stearman aircraft, a passion that was evident in his life. He was not only dedicated to flying and maintaining his own Stearman but also played a crucial role in continually growing the Stearman community. His efforts brought together pilots and enthusiasts, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and shared knowledge.

He was a unifying figure among Stearman pilots, encouraging gatherings, most notably the National Stearman Fly-In, which he regularly attended, and providing invaluable help in aircraft restoration. His generosity and willingness to share knowledge made him a cornerstone of the Stearman community and the SRA. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will undoubtedly live on in the skies and the countless Stearman aircraft that keep flying.