Doris Gwendolyn Bratcher

Doris Gwendolyn Bratcher, 92, known throughout the country as “Mo” passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024. Doris was born on July 27th, 1932, in St. Johns, Newfoundland. She was the second born, and middle child, of Edward and Florance (Diamond) Mitchell.

Doris met her husband, William Bratcher, while he was stationed at the Air Force Base in Newfoundland, Canada. They were married on October 11th, 1955, at the Smoky Hill AFB Chapel in Salina, KS. Together they had two sons, Jeffrey Lynn Bratcher born in September of 1956, and Glen Ray Bratcher born in December of 1957. Over the next 15 years their family would be stationed throughout the country; including, Salina (Kansas), Caribou (Maine), Goldsboro (North Carolina), and finally settling down in Medical Lake, Washington. Doris embraced the challenges and adventures of military life. Her ability to adapt to new places and situations, and her commitment to maintaining a stable, nurturing home were a testament to her deep devotion to her husband and family. While stationed at the Fairchild AFB in Washington, Doris had an integral position at the military base exchange. Her dedication, hard work, and leadership made her a respected and valued member of the base.

Doris cherished time spent with family & friends, socializing, and playing cards. She loved to shop, always taking the opportunity to spoil her beloved grandchildren. She had a passion and love for animals. Stray kittens always seemed to find a special place in her heart. Throughout the years she rescued many, giving them a loving home; as well as, feeding any, and all, that came to her door.

Doris held a deep love for Washington State and the life she and Bill had built together. When Bill began experiencing health issues, they hoped a warmer climate would help bring some relief. In 1989, Doris followed her husband on one final adventure across the country, moving to Hudson, Florida.

While in Hudson, they quickly spread roots, and it became their home. They opened a clothing shop at the flea market and stayed busy even after retirement. Doris loved having family visit and always looked forward to their

grandchildren staying with them during the summer. These were the moments that she valued and treasured the most. She made sure to fill their days with adventures they would remember forever, bringing them to camps, amusement parks, beaches, and their favorite place Weeki Wachee Springs – that would go on to become a beloved tradition that her grandchildren would pass onto their children over 20 years later. Later in life, she became an avid Tampa Bay Rays fan, rarely missing a game on TV, and cheering many times from the stands alongside her grandchildren and their families. Above all, her greatest joy came from her family and serving others, a testament to her kind and generous nature.

Doris is preceded in death by her husband William Bratcher; son Glen Bratcher; grandson Lee Bratcher; great-grandson Jaxson Viereck; and sister Edith Combs. She is survived by her son, Jeffrey Bratcher of Port Richey, FL, granddaughters Kelly Poss of Tea, SD, and Karin Viereck (Stephen) of Sioux Falls, SD; and brother Freeman of Newfoundland, CA; as well as many beloved great grandchildren Owen, Madison, Joe, Leah, Kameron, Kyleigh, Oakley, and Brock.