William M. McBratney

Celebrating the life of a truly remarkable man, William M. McBratney, known affectionately to many as Mr. Bill, we remember his loving spirit, thoughtful nature, and his compassionate heart. Born on October 9, 1949, in Philadelphia, PA, Bill spent a rich and fulfilling life in service to others, living out his Christian faith in tangible ways. He was a shining beacon of God's love to all who knew him and leaves an indelible legacy of kindness and generosity.
A creative soul, Bill had the unique ability to see the beauty in the world around him – a skill he carried over into his cherished hobby as a photographer. He was an avid reader, a great Philadelphia tour guide, and a lover of New York City. His thoughtful nature and kindness were evident in supporting his wife Collette at the Salvation Army with her Be Your Best Program, where he touched the lives of young girls and women from all over the Philadelphia area.
Above all, Bill was a man of deep faith. A devoted former member of Calvary Memorial Church where he served as a Bible School Teacher, Trustee, and Head Usher. He presently attended Calvary Chapel of Philadelphia where he was an usher and also lent his time and love to the infants at Calvary Chapel, creating a nurturing environment for the youngest members of the congregation. In Ephesians 2:10, we find words that echo Bill's life, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Bill leaves behind his beloved wife, Collette McBratney, who was the center of his world. His love affair with Collette started in Sunday School 52 years ago at Calvary Memorial Church. His favorite song was "It Had to Be You," a testament to his tender-hearted, romantic nature for his dear Collette. Their love never wavered, and they enjoyed traveling, going to church and always supporting each other. Bill will also be sadly missed, his relatives, many dear friends and his church family. He was preceded in death by his father, John McBratney, and mother, Verda McBratney and his brother John H. Mc Bratney.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Bill's life on Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 9:00 am for a visitation, followed by a memorial service to celebrate his life, 10:00 am at Calvary Chapel of Philadelphia, located at 13500 Philmont Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19116.
In Lieu of Flowers memorial donations in Bill's name to Calvary Chapel of Philadelphia 13500 Philmont Avenue Philadelphia 19116 or The Salvation Army Be Your Best Program 701 N. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19103, would be appreciated.
In honor of Bill's life and love for others, we encourage those who knew him to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Let us together remember and celebrate the life of this incredible man, who touched us with his love and warmed us with his kindness.