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Thomas Bratcher Obituary

THOMAS HOLLAND BRATCHER IV, 19, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and child of God, passed from this world into the hands of God on Thursday, July 3, 2014, following injuries from an automobile accident. Thomas is preceded in death by his aunt, Copia Westbrook. He is survived by his parents, Tom and Teresa Bratcher; sister, Christyn Bratcher; brother, Brandon Bratcher; his beloved puppies, Zap, Dakota and Biggie; grandparents, Tommy and Carol Bratcher and Robbie and Lois Westbrook. He leaves to cherish his memory several aunts, uncles and cousins: Mike, Melba and Joseph Westbrook; Mark and Travis Westbrook; Taylor and Stephen Sprague; Mary, Bill, Christine, Kyle and Rachel Rump; Laura, Gerald, Jonathan, Jacob, Ashlyn and Matthew Evans; Don Bratcher and Michael and Matthew Smith; John, Rory, Carson and Reese Bratcher; special friends, Nick, Marcus, Renee, Jacob, Garrett, Elias, Dylan and Megan; his special moms and dads, who loved him as much as his own: Merit and Chris; Tomasinia and Marcus; Karina and Renee; and, Brenda and Cory, along with numerous other family and a host of loving friends.
Thomas was born at the Women's Hospital of Texas in Houston on December 15, 1994. He was a happy baby with a deep, deep belly laugh, and it is this happiness that carried him through life. Thomas attended Trinity-Klein Lutheran School from Pre-K 4 through 8th grade; Klein Collins High School, where he played 4 years of basketball, including senior year Varsity; and, Texas A&M University, Class of 2017, where he was a proud member of the Squadron 2 Gators in the Corps of Cadets and the Corps Basketball Team. His plan was to major in Petroleum Engineering, retire early with great wealth and travel the world. Thomas was a young man of tremendous character and faith. He was a hard worker, and was devoted to his family and friends. In all that he did, Thomas displayed enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, commitment and genuine concern for others. Thomas loved God with his whole heart and he wasn't afraid to show it. He loved basketball, relaxing, working out, watching movies, good friends and good times. Thomas loved his family and friends deeply. He considered his friends to be family and it's obvious that he brought as much joy to their lives as they brought to his.
The family will be receiving family and friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2014, at Klein Funeral Home-Champions. The Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at Trinity Lutheran Church-Klein at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Klein Memorial Park on F.M. 2920.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Squadron 2 Gators March of Dimes Fund 2014-2015 at 505 University Drive East #502, College Station, Texas 77840, Attn: Katy Scott – please make checks payable to ""March of Dimes"", Memo: ""In memory of Thomas Bratcher '17"" or www.gofundme.com/b282gs; or, the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Basketball Team Fund at Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Drive, College Station, Texas, 77840 - please make checks payable to ""Texas A&M Foundation"", Memo: ""In memory of Thomas Bratcher '17"".

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle on Jul. 7, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Bratcher

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Ranee Cress Wright

July 2, 2025

Teresa, this came across on my email and I wanted to reach out and let you know you are in my prayers today. It doesn't seem as though it has been 11 years since Thomas went to be with Jesus, but it doesn't seem like 5 years ago when Lydia went to be with Jesus either, yet it at the same time, feels like a lifetime. I understand as few people do, all the emotions, even now , that we go thru. Walking thru life one moment at a time and leaning into the joyful things that God has brought to my life, helps me keep my eyes and heart focused on Jesus. I imagine there are times you wish Thomas were here to see "this" or do "that". I know I feel that way. I am finding I can experience sadness and joy at the same time and I'm grateful for that, because it means God is at work in me and is continuing to fulfill His purpose while I am are here on His earth. I believe He is doing the same for you.

Jose and Carmen Perez

July 10, 2014

The Bratcher Family
We are deeply saddened by the news of Thomas' passing. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family: May your heart and soul find peace and comfort during this difficult time. We cannot imagine your pain, but we are here if you need us. With love and hugs,
The Perez Family

July 10, 2014

Tom & Teresa
My heart goes out to you and all of your family for this great loss. I wished that I only had some words to express how I feel and words that can ease some of the pain. I am so sorry. You should all be proud of the fine young man that he was. A true reflection on the both of you. God Bless you, my thoughts and prayers will be with you. Love ya both.

Bethany Tucker

July 10, 2014

Tom & Teresa,
So sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Thomas's BB game was the same time as Ty's and I would peek in at halftime to see how his team was doing. We're praying for you guys.

July 9, 2014

Tom and Teresa-you and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers since receiving the news about Thomas. I hate that we're so far away and unable to be with you at this time. We will continue to keep all of you close to our hearts in the days ahead.
All of our love,
Terry and Tari

Marc, Monica & Mikayla Tompkins

July 8, 2014

Tom, Teresa, Christyn & Brandon, we are so sorry for your loss. You are very loved and are remaining in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. It is in these times that Our might God will carry you. Love,

Connie Lunde

July 8, 2014

Drew and I are so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Thomas from Trinity and how nice he was to Chris. Some of my favorite memories are whenthe boys played basketball together. May God comfort you and your family in this difficult time.

Gloria Angelle

July 8, 2014

Tom and Teresa, words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. I talked to Thomas on facebook a couple of years ago thinking he was you Tom and just in his writing I could tell he was such a sweet young man. My heart goes out to the two of you.

Lance Badoni

July 8, 2014

Thomas and Teresa and family,

I am deeply sorry for the loss of your great son. He was an example to many and a very kind a loving young man. We will most surely miss his warm and exciting presence on the Campus at Texas A&M and on the Quad. His spirit will never leave us. May the Lord God comfort you in this time of pain and grief. I leave you my sincere condolences.

Beverly & Lacey Meyer

July 8, 2014

Our hearts and prayers go out to you all during this time. Stand strong and God will carry you through it.

Mike and Mary Jane Littell Michael Gallo

July 8, 2014

Tom and Theresa, we were so saddened by the loss of OUR Thomas. You are in our thoughts and our prayers.

Elaine Tinsley

July 8, 2014

Dear Tom & Teresa, I am so very sorry for your loss of a beloved son. Richard and I lost his only son when Richard, Jr. was age 32. That kind of feeling is deep. I can only console you with the assurance that while time does not lessen the loss, time does ease your grief. Please know that our thoughts and our prayers are with you. I regret to say that we will not be able to attend the funeral but we are deeply saddened for you and I (Elaine) love you both very much. Again, I am so very, truly sorry. I will continue to pray for you during this difficult time in your lives.

July 8, 2014

Tom and Theresa, I am so very sorry to hear about Thomas. My heart goes out to your family. Thomas leaves a legacy for all who knew him. I loved playing with him on the side street when he was just a little guy, reading to him, watching him ride the red jeep, and when you moved I always loved hearing about the good things he was doing. God bless all of you in this sad time. I pray that you will learn to cope (as I had to) and keep those specials memories close. It helps so much. Know that family and friends will see you through. I am always around to talk with you. He will be missed. May God rest his soul.
Love, Nell Baham

Doris Adamcik

July 8, 2014

Teresa, Tom, Christyn & Brandon,
Mere words cannot express the deep, deep sadness I feel for you all and our extended families. My last conversation with Thomas was at the high school graduation party for Christyn and his two cousins. He was looking forward to his Sophomore year not having to take "orders" from the upper classmen as a "fish". He was loved by so many will be missed tremendously. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Aunt Doris

Alaysia Chancellor

July 8, 2014

I can't remember a day that I saw him that he wasn't happy. I had physics with Thomas senior year. Anything I needed help with, Thomas was there to explain everything. He had such a positive aura, and it saddens me that he left so soon. May God bless the Bratcher family in the time of their loss.

visa v

July 7, 2014

It's never a good thing to pass away so young... but I'm so thankful Thomas's heart is Jesus's. We'll see you one day buddy. Praying for your family to be strong through this. God will take care of them.

Linda and Al Lanctot

July 7, 2014

Please accept our prayers, our sympathy, and our tears for the wrenching loss of your son. Our son, Zachary, is a new friend of his from the Corps and from the Colorado trip that the boys took after school (where I think your photo was taken). God be with you all as you mourn him.
Corps Mom and Dad '17

Tracy Rodriguez

July 7, 2014

May your light ever shine in all our hearts. Your family will miss you, until we meet again. Love your cousin, Tracy

Steve and Kathleen Swisher

July 7, 2014

To The Bratcher Family;
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We cannot begin to understand the pain you are going through. Thomas was a kind person and a terrific basketball player. He will always be missed. The Swishers

July 7, 2014

Tom,Christyn and Brandon, Vince and I are so sorry to hear about Thomas. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything that we can do please let us know. we love you guys so much and I don't think there are any right words to say except we will continue to pray for you and your family.
Love,
Vince and Melinda

Carole Ann Mather

July 7, 2014

Tommy and Theresa
My heart is breaking for you. I am so sorry that you have to go through this. I will keep you both in my prayers. We know that both of our boys are together now. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. Love you much.

Patsy Borak

July 7, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Bratcher family.

Mary Saenz

July 7, 2014

Our prayers are with your entire family. My sons are in the Corps of Cadets Challenger 17 and played basketball with Thomas. They were impressed with his athleticism and competitiveness. He will always be remembered!
Corps of Cadets Mom

Georgeann Carroll

July 7, 2014

My heart aches for all of this young man's family. May God give each of you the strength and courage to get through the comings days and months ahead.
"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

Christopher Rump

July 7, 2014

Teresa, so sorry for your tragic loss. Our prayers are with you & your family. Chris, Evan & Ryan Rump

July 7, 2014

Dear Bratcher Family,
We are deeply grieved by the passing Thomas. He was an impressive young man and a blessing to Charles and the Gator Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Hogan Family
Charles & Christine,'89

July 7, 2014

Dear Mr. Bratcher - You were very patient with my many questions recently at your job. My heart breaks for you and your family and I will pray for peace for you all. Gayle Vail

Chris Schiffbauer

July 7, 2014

The Bratcher family is in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss.

Jeff Wilson

July 7, 2014

To Thomas' family --
For the past year, I had dinner every Wednesday night with Thomas and his Gator 2 "fish buddies." Wednesday night with the Gators was my favorite part of the work-week. Thomas will be missed by his extended Corps of Cadets family and his Gator 2 classmates. You have my deepest sympathies
- Jeff Wilson, Gator 2 Corps Academic Mentor

Susan and Frank Seibert

July 7, 2014

Bratcher Family:
We are so sorry for your loss. Thomas was great friend to our son. He blessed Jack's life. Prayers surrounding you,
the Seiberts
Corps Family '17

July 7, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Bratcher family. We are praying that the Good Lord will give you all much needed strength during this extremely difficult time.

The Cos Family

Debbie Frankino

July 7, 2014

We are so saddened to hear the tragic passing of Thomas. We have great memories at Trinity with Thomas and the "Boys". When you are at the lowest point in your day, I am there with you. You are not alone. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. May the outpouring of love that surrounds you provide you with the comfort you need during this time.

Kaye Mikeska

July 7, 2014

With our deepest sympathies and all our love and prayers to our dearest friends Tom and Teresa. May Thomas's joyful memories and his love for God fill your hearts and comfort you during this painful time. Love to you all. Kaye and Chris

Monique Fullbright

July 7, 2014

I am so sorry for the loss of your son, Thomas. Our thoughts are prayers are with you and your family.

Pam Alvarado

July 7, 2014

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.

Heather Yezak

July 6, 2014

Praying for strength for your family in this terrible time of loss. May god bless you and give you peace and comfort.

Jennifer Cabello

July 6, 2014

I'm sorry for your loss, he was such a sweet young man who brightened my day. He was always so kind and willing to help those around him.

Aunt Gleda . Uncle Steve

July 6, 2014

I will continue to keep each one of the family in my prayers for Gods peace and His comfort. We will always remember Thomas as that kind sweet person he was.

Dawna Schwalm

July 6, 2014

We are continuing to pray for your entire family. My son Dustan will be there with all Gators. We know you are in Gods loving arms and we will miss you until we meet again

Cindy Gauthier

July 6, 2014

We are all so desperately sorry for the loss of Thomas. Our hearts and prayers go out to your whole family.

M'Lynda Durr

July 6, 2014

Your extended Corps Family prays with you and for you …always know He will get you through this too!… My son… B-2 Class of 2016

Ranee Cress (Dylan Cress , Trinity)

July 6, 2014

My heart is hurting and I can't even begin to imagine the pain you are experiencing. I'm committed to pray for your family daily. Even though it's been a few years since we've seen you all , I still remember Thomas' generous heart, his love for basketball and his dedication to his friends. He has a precious and strong spirit.

July 6, 2014

My prayers to your family.......... this is just so tragic, I'm so so sorry
RIP Thomas
Corps Mom of 17'

July 6, 2014

Just heard about Thomas. My heart is breaking for all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Melinda Hart (Strack)

Ursula Thomas

July 5, 2014

My heartfelt condolences to your family. From a fellow Corps mom from c/o 2017.

Rebecca Streckfuss

July 5, 2014

I'm so sorry for your loss. Prayers
My son is in the Corp Class 17

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