Jesse Howard Bratton

In 1944, Jesse H. Bratton left home barely more than a boy, loading up on milk and bananas at enlistment so he could make weight and fight during World War II. That decision landed him in the U.S. Navy where he served as a Seaman 1st Class in Okinawa on the USS Oneida. As part of the generation that literally saved the world, to his credit, that is not how Jesse carried himself through any of his 94 years. After the war, he kept humble about his service, trading one set of responsibilities for another – husband, dad, son, brother, and electrician.

His innate talent to work with his hands led to a career in the trades, where he became an expert in installing electrical systems across the U.S. As an accomplished electrician, he worked on many commercial, industrial, and residential projects and had been a proud member of his local IBEW during his career.

Above all, his family and unwavering faith guided him through everything. A member of Holy Family Church for four decades, he read his Bible every day, exemplifying passages like 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” May we, like Jesse, fight the good fight, finish the race, and remain faithful to the end.

Jesse is survived by his youngest sister, Olga, whom he loved dearly and spoke with every day. He is also survived by his daughters, Elizabeth and Patricia, and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, brother, their spouses, his son, son-in-law, and grandson.

As a proud U.S. Navy veteran, his request was to be buried at sea. A memorial service will be held at a later date when we can all gather safely. For condolences, please visit www.porterloring.com