Virginia "Ginger" Bratton, 77, of Mt Carmel, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday August 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband and family. She was born on December 11, 1947, in Indianapolis Indiana, the daughter of Robert and Dorothy Johnson.
Ginger was a devoted wife of nearly 40 years to John Lee Bratton. She was also a cherished mother, who was always there when needed to offer support, wisdom and love in abundance. Ginger was a loving grandmother and great grandmother. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and strong faith in the Lord. She was known for her many talents including crafting, baking simple treats to extravagant wedding cakes. She developed a love for music early in life. She played the autoharp and organ. Ginger had an exceptionally beautiful and heavenly voice.
Ginger was a faithful member of Heartland Worship Center for many years. Through Heartland she shared her love of giving by devoting her time to Bridges of Hope for many years.
Ginger is survived by her husband John Lee Bratton of Mt. Carmel, IL; her daughter Michelle (Terry) Holcomb of Owensville, IN, son Jimmy Mahan of Evansville IN, daughter Merideth (Rodney) Newton of Princeton IN and daughter Margie (Gary) Krug of Allendale IL; grandchildren Ryleigh (Logan Jones) Holcomb, Gary Lee (Michael) Perry, Ali (Eric) DeLong, Brittany (Logan) Keil, Taylor Newton, James Mahan, Kasey Mahan, Bethany Pack, and Nick Perry; several great grandchildren and a great-great grandchild on the way. She is also survived by honorary grandsons Gilbert Santos and Eric Emmons; an honorary son, Mike McWilliams; and Doug Sievers whom she also loved like a son.
Preceding her in death were her parents, two brothers Carl Johnson and Paul Johnson, and grandson Lee Timberlake.
A memorial service to celebrate Ginger’s life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Heartland Worship Center. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m. with the service at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate her beautiful life. Entombment will follow the service in Highland Memorial Garden Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Bridges of Hope, an organization close to Gingers heart.
Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bratton family.
