Bratcher, Bobby Lee (Bob)

December 17, 1934 - June 13, 2014

Bobby Lee (Bob) Bratcher, of Viola, son of the late Fred and Etta Long Bratcher, was born December 17, 1934 in Griffithville, Arkansas. He died June 13, 2014 at his home in Viola at the age of 79 years 5 months and 27 days.

He was united in marriage to Loetta Marchant in October 1978 in Cave Springs, AR. Bob proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, and went through many countries during his tour of duty. After returning to civilian life, he eventually found his love of travel and gift of story telling was a perfect fit for a truck driver. After many years and many miles with Willis Shaw, JTL and ABF, he retired and enjoyed having time for his dogs, cows, hunting, fishing and all along the way had so much love and pride for his loving family. He was a Baptist.

He is survivred by his loving wife of thirty-five years, Loetta Marchant Bratcher; three daughters; Vicki Ghormley and husband Don; Pam Phillips and husband Doug; and Denise Farley; stepson, Chuck Downum and wife Debbie and stepdaughter, JuDene Stroud and husband Junior; 9 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; tow sisters, Gloria Fowlkes and husband Charles and Carolyn Teague and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by a brother Leo and infant brother Lyndel; son, Charles Bratcher and daughter, Gail Bratcher and his father and mother. Services are Monday, June 16, 2014 at 10 am at the Viola First Baptist Church with burial to follow in Viola Cemetery under the direction of Cox-Blevins Funeral Home of Salem. Pallbearers are, Andy McCandlis, Kevin McCandlis, Charles Neal, Rick Corter, Scotty Carroll, Ronnie Sutherland and Jeffrey Fry. Honorary Pallbearers are Connie Hutson, Neal McCandlis, Joe DeShazo, Leonard Dunn, Charles Fowlkes, Don Ghormley, Doug Phillips, Chuck Downum, and Junior Stroud. Please sign the guest book for the family.