Benita "Buckby" Bratcher

Benita Joyce Bratcher, a woman whose love and warmth touched countless lives, peacefully departed this world on Tuesday, September 9th, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on January 19th, 1940, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to William and Opal Buckby, Benita lived a life filled with love, family, and a deep appreciation for simple joys. Benita's life was enriched immeasurably when she married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Bratcher, on March 26th, 1960. Together, they embarked on a journey that led them to Van Buren, Indiana, where Bob found steady work in the nearby city of Marion. A devoted homemaker, Benita, created a warm and welcoming home, filled with the aroma of her delicious cooking. She also shared her talents with the community, working at Sears in Marion for ten fulfilling years. Benita possessed a passion for life that shone through in her many interests. A talented cook, she delighted in preparing meals for her loved ones. An avid reader, she found solace and adventure within the pages of countless books, with a particular fondness for a good mystery. Her adventurous spirit led her to breathtaking sights, including the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, a place that sparked a shared passion for collecting Native American pottery with her beloved Bob. But above all else, Benita cherished her family. She was a constant source of love, support, and encouragement, always reminding those around her of the wisdom her father instilled in her: "If you take care of the pennies... the dollars will take care of themselves." This simple yet profound philosophy guided her life and shaped her legacy of generosity and care. Benita was preceded in death by her parents, William and Opal Buckby, as well as her twin brothers, Ronald and Donald Buckby, and her sisters, Carole "Jean" Payne and Norma Luellen. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, carried on by her devoted husband, Robert "Bob" Bratcher of Marion, Indiana. She is also survived by her loving sons, Bob Bratcher (Kelly) of Grapevine, Texas, and Scott Bratcher (Misti) of Marion, Indiana; her grandchildren, Jamalyn, Jackson (Makayla), Amanda, Victoria (Ryan) Ramsey, Will (Samantha), and Christian (MaKail); and her great-grandchildren, Luna, Harper, Jennings, Ayven, and Luca. Benita also leaves behind a host of other relatives and dear friends who will forever remember her kindness, her laughter, and the unwavering love she shared with the world. Benita's memory will be forever etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Gathering of family and friends and a memorial service will be held on Friday, October 10th, 2025, at 9:00am at the VA chapel across from the Marion VA Medical Center, 1700 East 38th Street, Marion, Indiana, followed by a committal service at 10:00am at the Marion National Cemetery Committal Shelter. A celebration of Benita's life will be held at Matter Park Garden House from 1:00-4:00 PM following the committal. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Benita (Buckby) Bratcher, please visit our floral store.