W.T. Shumake & Daughters

Robert "Dee" Rattler, 75, of Louisville died Sunday, July 24, 2022.



Robert Duran Rattler was born May 18, 1947, to parents. Bennie Rattler and Robert Motley. He was the oldest of five children and was raised in the Portland and St. X neighborhoods where he developed many friendships that lasted him a lifetime. He accepted Jesus Christ into his life at an early age. By the time he was ready for high school, Robert made a decision to attend Shawnee High School where he played basketball. Outside of high school and at the local Boys and Girls Club, he was known in the neighborhood as the “neighborhood superstar”. After finishing high school, he married Barbara Wilson then joined the marines to serve his country and provide for his family.



Dee, as he was known to his family and friends, loved his family so much. He enjoyed the family dinners, games and holiday get-togethers . Another enjoyment for him was going to Churchill Downs where he sat in the shade and relaxed in the paddock while watching the horses.

He was a super fan of the University of Kentucky Wildcats, Boston Celtics and Dallas Cowboys. Besides sports, he always found time to be entertained by watching old cowboy movies or listening to music while sitting outside with friends.



Dee was preceded in death by his father and mother, Robert Motley and Bennie Motley; sisters. Velma Motley and Janet Motley. On Sunday, July 24, 2022, Robert Rattler departed this life. He leaves to cherish fond memories of him: daughters, Reginale Rattler and Rhonda Rattler.; four grandchildren, Ryan Rattler, Chancelor Rattler, Chadwick McDowell (Lynn), and Taylor Owens. Hours after his passing, and while both are still deployed in South Korea, grandson Chadwick Reginald McDowell and his wife Lynn McDowell gave birth to the first great grandson named Chadwick Reginald McDowell Jr., and this new life will be called “Dee”! Robert Duran Rattler also leaves behind: sisters, Marilyn Thomas, Patricia Scott, Zefferine Motley. He also shared special bonds with a host of nieces, cousins, nephews, and friends. Dee will be missed.