Richard D. Bratton, 85, of Roanoke, passed away peacefully, on Friday, February 27, 2015. Richard was born on February 19, 1930 to William Clarence and Pearl Fuller Bratton in Roanoke. He served in the United States Air Force and then pursued his lifelong love of flying by attending Embry Riddle School of Aviation. Richard changed his birth certificate to obtain his pilot license at 15, and started his aviation career in a small plane spotting forest fires in Georgia. He then worked for the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller in Washington, DC. The Bratton family then returned to Roanoke, where he continued as an Air Traffic Controller at Roanoke Regional Airport until his retirement.

Richard is survived by the love of his life, Reva Kirk Bratton, and they shared 57 years of marriage. They had three loving children and their wives, Richard K and Robin Bratton of Daleville, Mark and Vickie Bratton of Roanoke, and David and Chandra Bratton of Woodland, Texas. He was "Pops" to six cherished grandchildren, Megan (Greg) Bratton Sink, Christopher (Jennifer) Bratton, Randy, Emily and Julie Bratton, and Shannon Showalter. Three and a half great-grandchildren will also treasure his memory, Riley and Baby Sink (due in July), Connor and Mason Bratton.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Harry, Earnest and Jackson Bratton.

Special thank you to the Adult Care Center of the Roanoke Valley for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers please give a donation to your charity of choice.

Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2015, at Oakey's East Chapel, with Pastor Chuck Miller officiating. The family will receive friends starting at 11 a.m. until time of memorial service, at Oakey's East Chapel, www.oakeys.com.




Posted in Obituaries on Sunday, March 1, 2015