Kent Bratton

Kent M. Bratton, 81, of Cape Girardeau passed away Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Saint Francis Medical Center.

Born on Dec. 31, 1941, in Dodge City, Kansas, Kent was the son of Ivan G. 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 degree. His career began with his father, working at Ivan G. Bratton Construction Co. in Dodge City.

Kent went on to attain both an undergraduate degree and a master's degree. Kent graduated from Fort Hays State College in Hays, Kansas, in 1969 with a degree in earth sciences and geology. He then graduated in 1971 from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville with a Master of Science. Kent went on to become the regional planner at Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission in Perryville, Missouri, working from 1972 to 1988. He then moved to Cape Girardeau, where he assumed the position of city planner. He was Cape Girardeau's city planner for 19 years before retiring in 2007.

One of Kent's proudest accomplishments was 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 Marquette Hotel and Schultz School restoration projects.

On June 23, 1962, Kent married the love of his life, Lavetta Bratton, at Dodge City First Church of God. On June 23, 2022, Kent and Lavetta celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at Celebrations in Cape Girardeau.

Kent enjoyed reading and visiting Cape Girardeau Public Library. He loved watching college basketball, specifically Kansas University in Lawrence. 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; daughter, Jennifer; three grandchildren; and beloved cats, Patches, Gizmo, Comet, Sunshine, Puff, Snuffy and Cham.

Kent's family added: "Although 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, South Carolina; two sisters, Jonel Bell and Martha Woods; and three grandchildren, Elizabeth, Annabelle and Jack Lockridge. Kent also leaves behind a niece, Christy Ruback, and nephew, William John Woods; as well as many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 20, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral will be at noon Saturday, May 20, at the funeral home, with Deacon Al Stoverink officiating

Memorial contributions can be made to Smile Train, Cape Girardeau Public Library and Abbey Road First Christian Church.

A special thank you to Saint Francis medical staff, who showed great kindness, care and empathy to Kent, Lavetta and Jennifer.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.