James A. Bratcher, 85, of Hillsboro, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2016, at Hillsboro, IL.
Cremation rites will be accorded. Graveside Memorial Services will be held at 12 Noon, Wednesday, January 27, 2016, @ Green Hill Cemetery, Van Burensburg, IL, with Military Rites. Dr. Ben Foxworth is officiating. Friends and family may gather at 11:30 A.M. at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org 800-608-7836. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. millerfh.net.
He was born June 30, 1930, in Detroit, MI, the son of Alfred James & Maggie Isabel (Simmons) Bratcher. Married Ardeth A. Walker on July 10, 1951, in Vandalia, IL. They celebrated 64 years of marriage. James was employed for 43 years at Mueller Co., Decatur, IL, where he was a Tool & Dye Maker and he was also a part time Barber. After his retirement he enjoyed sharing the sights and ports that he had visited during his naval career with his loving wife. James was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving four years aboard the USS Gilbert Island, USS Bennington & USS Lake Champlain Aircraft Carriers; and member of Bethel Baptist Church, Rural Vandalia, IL.
He is survived by: Wife – Ardeth Bratcher, Hillsboro, IL; Daughters – Denise Stombaugh & Rick, Morton, IL; Vida Camp & Harold, Ft. Collins, CO and Donna Bratcher & Paul, Orangeburg, SC; Grandchildren – Eliaz McMillan & Harmony, Cade Stombaugh & Jess, Kyle Bresnan & Tina, Aaron Stombaugh & Kelly, and Emily Bresnan; Great Grandchildren – Dez and Jude Stombaugh.
Preceded in death by: Parents; & Sister – Barbara Bratcher.
