Kent M Bratton

Kent M. Bratton, age 81, of Cape Girardeau, MO, passed away Thursday, April 27, 2023 at the St. Francis Hospital. Born in Dodge City, KS on December 31, 1941, Kent was the son of Ivan G. Bratton and Christine (Vang) Bratton. After graduating high school as a Dodge City Red Demon, Kent attended Dodge City Junior College and graduated with an Associate's Degree. His career began with his father working at Ivan G. Bratton Construction Company in Dodge City Kansas. Kent went on to attain both an undergraduate degree and a masters degree. Kent graduated from Fort Hays State College in Hays Kansas in 1969 with a degree in Earth Sciences & Geology. Kent then graduated from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, IL with a Masters of Science in 1971. Kent went on to become the regional planner at the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission in Perryville, MO, working from 1972 to 1988. He then moved to Cape Girardeau, MO where he assumed the position of City Planner, where he worked as Cape Girardeau's City Planner for 19 years before retiring in 2007. One of Kent's proudest accomplishments was the Cape LaCroix Creek/Walker Branch Flood Control Project in Cape Girardeau, which was a culmination for him of all the flood projects he did throughout the Southeast Missouri region. Kent was also instrumental in the Marquette Hotel and Schultz School restoration project. On June 23, 1962, Kent married the love of his life, Lavetta Bratton at the Dodge City First Church of God. On June 23, 2022, Kent and Lavetta celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary at Celebrations in Cape Girardeau, MO. Kent enjoyed reading and visiting the Cape Girardeau City Library. Kent loved watching college basketball, specifically Kansas University in Lawrence, KS. He was part of the ROMEO Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out) and enjoyed spending time with old friends. He respected everyone, but especially his Grand Ladies. Above all, Kent devoted his love and time to the love of his life, Lavetta, his daughter Jennifer, his three grandchildren and his beloved cats, Patches, Gizmo, Comet, Sunshine, Puff, Snuffy and Cham. Though Kent is gone from our sight, we never lose those we love. We loved Kent dearly, and he will remain a part of us forever. He left us with memories to cherish and a lifetime of laughter and love. Survivors include his wife Lavetta Naylor Bratton; daughter, Jennifer (James) Lockridge of Charleston, SC; two sisters, Jonel Bell and Martha Woods; three grandchildren, Elizabeth, Annabelle and Jack Lockridge. Kent also leaves behind niece Christy Ruback, and nephew William John Woods; as well as many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ford and Sons Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau, MO will be hosting both the visitation and funeral services. Visitation will be held Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. The funeral service will be at noon following the visitation. Memorial contributions can be made to the Smile Train, the Cape Girardeau City Library and Abbey Road First Christian Church. Arrangements entrusted to Ford and Sons Funeral Home, 1001 Mt. Auburn Rd., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701. A special thank you to St. Francis medical staff who showed great kindness, care and empathy to Kent, Lavetta and Jennifer. Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

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Kent M Bratton

December 31, 1941 - April 27, 2023