Deborah Wellesley-Ractliffe

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Deborah Kay Wellesley-Ractliffe’s passing. Surrounded by her loving family, she left this world on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. Memorial Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Miller Funeral Home—Downtown Chapel, with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. 

Deborah “Deb” Wellesley-Ractliffe was born on August 7, 1953, in Sioux Falls, SD to Harold and Charlotte (Kemerling) Bendt. She was raised in Sioux Falls and graduated from Washington Senior High School. Following high school, she pursued her passion for words and education by completing degrees in English at the University of Sioux Falls (B.A.) and Western Illinois University (M.A.).  After graduation, Deb embarked on what would be a long career teaching English, developing programming for gifted and talented students, and coaching drama at West Lyon School in Inwood, IA.  Later in life, Deb discovered a passion for yoga, becoming an avid learner, prolific teacher (at several local studios), and a compassionate mentor and friend.  She had a wonderful, learned mind, both analytical and artistic; and a love for living things. She worked very hard to ensure the well-being of her family and students. 

Family was central to Deb’s life. She deeply cherished the moments spent with her loved ones; whether it was long talks at the kitchen table, trying a new recipe to share, cuddling with her “fur babies,” or making trips to California to celebrate holidays, enjoy the sun and water, and connect with those she loved on the coast. Those who were fortunate enough to know her, would often describe Deb as “vibrant.” Her unlimited enthusiasm for knowledge, commitment to kindness, dedication to honesty, capacity for humor, and her love for beauty (whether it be art, travel, sunsets) truly touched those around her. 

Grateful for sharing Deb’s life, are her husband, Bruce Bleakley; her daughter, Kendra Ractliffe (Ross Melter), Union City, CA; her son, Graham Ractliffe and his family, Sioux Falls, SD. Deb was proceeded in death by her parents and her brother Dennis Bendt, Rapid City, SD. 

In remembering Deb, we celebrate a life filled with love, integrity, and countless precious memories that will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.