James David Bratcher

James David Bratcher passed away on May 25, 2023 in Florence, AL at the age of 91. He was born in the Central community on February 2, 1932 to Marvin and Ruth Bratcher Patterson, both of whom predeceased him, as well as a stepfather, James O. Patterson. His wife and high school sweetheart, Martha Jane Smart, also predeceased him. He met Janie when they were working at the Crystal Plunge swimming pool at what became the Fairgrounds in Florence, AL.  Two siblings predeceased him, as well. Always dear to his heart were Helen Lazenby (Dank) and Gene Bratcher. What began as close relationships with siblings and the many Broadfoot and Bratcher cousins in childhood remained through adulthood. One favorite past time in recent years was driving him through the Central and Cloverdale communities while he reminisced.

 He attended schools at Fairview, Central, Coffee High School, University of Alabama, University of Wyoming, and Tennessee Tech University. After his education he taught and coached at Sheffield High School, Coffee High School, and Bradshaw High School. He retired in 1991.

He was a master competitor of anything! Hunting, fishing, golf, and gardening were enjoyed as long as his health held out. Nutcracker Christmas ornaments became a collection when his competitive spirit helped him win one at a Sunday School party at St. James Methodist. Football probably ranked first, only behind family, as his favorite thing.  He was inducted in the Lauderdale County Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.

Making sure family had access to the river was important to Mom and Daddy. Fun at the lake place at Aqua Vista began in 1965 and many July 4ths were celebrated with his famous chicken stew. Strong friendships were cemented at the lake house and great memories made!

Survivors include children Tim Bratcher, Vicki Tompkins (Chuck), Mona Ashley (Rick), grandchildren Katie Corrigan (Brian), Sara Quimby (David), David Ashley (Lacey), John Ashley (Jessica), Ali Hunt (Larry), and Jessie Simpson (Chris).  Great grandchildren are Isabella, Max, Charlee, and Colt Quimby, Taylor and Dallas Ashley, Claira Ashley, Lexi Hunt, Hampton Simpson and soon to be born Hoover Simpson. He is also survived by sister-in-law Martha Bratcher and many precious nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Pallbearers are David Ashley, John Ashley, Brian Corrigan, David Quimby, Larry Hunt, and Chris Simpson. Honorary pallbearers are Butch Toner and Charles Anderson.

Our family thanks Dr. Danny McFall, Station 4 at Mitchell Hollingsworth Nursing Home, Heather from Shoals Hospice, and thanks to so many for the sweet visits from friends and those remembering him at St. James Methodist.

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