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It is with deep sorrow that the Braland family announces the passing of their beloved mother, Mrs. Leatha Faye Braland, at the age of 68. Mrs. Braland was born on Tuesday, July 17, 1956, in Wichita, KS, the daughter of the late Johnny and Virginia Hopper. Leatha Faye Braland—a woman of unwavering love, quiet strength, and a servant’s heart. She poured herself into the people she loved, offering unconditional care and devotion to those fortunate enough to be in her circle. Fiercely loyal and deeply compassionate, she was tough when she needed to be but always full of love. Mrs. Braland, the widow of Dennis Dale Braland, Sr., entered into rest on March 17, 2025. The directors of Brown-Pennington-Atkins Funeral Home & Crematory are caring for the family. Nothing made Leatha happier than being surrounded by the people she loved. She was the heart of her family, always offering love, support, and a welcoming presence. Whether cheering on her great-grandson Leo at his baseball games, doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, or relaxing with her beloved dogs, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved watching sports in honor of her late husband, sharing meals at Shoney’s, and unwinding in front of the TV. But above all, her greatest pride and purpose came from being a mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother—roles she cherished more than anything. Leatha is now reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Dennis Braland, and her parents, Virginia Thacker and Johnny Hopper. She is survived by her loving children, Shannon (Bryan) Drayton of Hartsville, SC; Dennis Jr. (Kathy) Braland of Clermont, FL; and Derik Braland of Hartsville, SC. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Kiersten (Jacob) Cole of Hartsville, SC; Hunter (Alyssa) Braland of Clermont, FL; Trevor Drayton of Tampa, FL; Christian Braland of Clermont, FL; and Bryce Braland of Clermont, FL. Her great-grandchildren, Leo Cole, Navy Cole, Shepherd Cole, and Etta Cole, all of Hartsville, SC, brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her sisters, Debbie (Sam) Gomez and Jeannie (Bob) Barker, both of Wichita, KS. Leatha’s love, wisdom, and presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, and her family will carry her love with them always. A funeral service to honor her life will be held at 3 o’clock on Saturday, March 22, 2025, in The Chapel of Brown-Pennington-Atkins Funeral Home, with The Rev. David Braland officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Tributes

Mrs. Leatha Faye Hopper Braland

July 17, 1956 - March 17, 2025