John A. (Jack) Bracey March 9, 1925 - May 22, 2013 The Reverend Jack Bracey, born in Little Rock, S.C., died at his home in Elkin, May 22, 2013. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Wilhelmina Wallace Bracey, their five children: Alice Bracey (John Hodges) of Raleigh, John A. Bracey III (Rosalind Cole) of Dobson, Bill Bracey of Chapel Hill, David Bracey of Decatur, Ga., and Mary Bracey of Raleigh, and three grandchildren: Roy Bracey, Patrick Murdock and Jewell Bracey. Also surviving is a sister, Mary Edna Turbeville of Lake View, S.C. He grew up in Winter Garden, Florida and upon graduation from Lake View High School in 1943 entered the army. Wounded in Germany in 1945 he was honorably discharged receiving two Bronze Battle Stars and the Purple Heart. In January of 1946 he entered Wake Forest College (now University) to pursue his calling to the ministry. Following graduation in 1949 he entered Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., graduating in 1952. His ministry included First Baptist Church, Maxton (1952-55), Double Springs Baptist Church, Shelby (1955-62), First Baptist Church, Spring Hope (1962-68), Immanuel Chapel, Pfafftown (1968-74) and Weldon Baptist Church, Weldon (1974-90) He joined Veterans for Peace at its organization in 1984 and became a dedicated advocate for peace. For a number of years he convened a Ministers Discussion Group which he held in high regard. He grew roses in every place he called home and his interest in and love of wildflowers is evident in his collection of pictures taken and programs given on the subject. A great delight was assisting a blueberry farmer during the season and sharing berries with friends. An avid reader, he acquired a magnificent library over the years and encouraged friends to be readers. A memorial service to celebrate and honor his life will be held at the First Baptist Church in Elkin on Saturday, June 15 at 11:00. Friends are invited to visit with the family in the Fellowship Hall following the service. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be made to Smile Train, Veterans for Peace or the charity of choice. The family wishes to thank the compassionate staff of Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care.
