Willie Bragg

Sgt. 1st Class, Willie Charles Bragg, formerly of Chattanooga, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2016, at his home in Tacoma, Wash., from a lengthy illness. He was the son of Georgia Ann Fallins (deceased 2009) also of Chattanooga. He was a graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1958. He retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years of military service and in 2006, from the Good Samaritan Hospital in Tacoma, Wash., where he was employed as a Security Officer. He received a Bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland and a Master's Degree from Central Michigan University. He was a certified Defensive Driving Instructor by the National Safety Council. Willie Bragg was married to Mary Alice Bragg (deceased) for nearly 50 wonderful years. Their union was blessed with six children: Timothy, Carol (deceased), Darlene (deceased), Damon, Jon (Ophelia) and Kinla. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, George Franklin Bragg in 1945 and Dwight "Billie" Fallins in 1989. He is survived by three sons and one daughter named above. He is also survived by three sisters, Carolyn Bragg, Wanda Caffey (Theodor) and Elizabeth "Melissa" Spivey (husband, James, deceased all of Chattanooga. Also mourning him are three brothers, Larry "Busta" Fallins (Waldenia) in Richmond, Calif., Pastor Freddie "Peepo" Fallins of Chattanooga and Anthony "Jackie" Fallins (Emma) of Mableton, Ga. Lastly, feeling his absence is an aunt, Annie Mae McFarland of Durham, N.C.; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. His children testify that Willie Braggs was a great father and a very dedicated military servant. A caring and compassionate man, he gave faithfully to various charities and missions to Africa. He and his wife, Mary, were known for feeding the homeless and showing love for other families especially children. His life will be celebrated and his absence felt in his immediate family and his community at large. Sgt. 15t Class, Willie Charles Bragg was laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery, in Tacoma, Wash., on Jan. 13, 2016.