Erskine Braggs Sr.'s Obituary
Erskine Braggs Sr., age 99, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025. Born
October 18, 1925, in Madison County, Alabama, he was one of twelve children
born to James Braggs and Matilda McDonald Braggs in the close-knit farming
community of Pond Beach/Mullins Flat. His family later relocated to
Huntsville, where he attended William Hooper Council High School and
developed a lifelong love of learning. Later, he served in the army from 1943 to
1947, including active duty on Normandy Beach during World War II. He
married Ernestine Slaughter in 1947, and in 1950 they moved to Mansfield,
Ohio, where their five children grew up.
Erskine had a gift for gardening and was known to have a 'green thumb.' He
often shared spiritual encouragements and was quick with humorous sayings—
one of his most memorable being, “Plant you now, dig you later.” He was also a
sharp dresser who enjoyed dancing and playing the electric guitar. He gained
experience in a range of occupations—including the Huntsville Arsenal, the
Greyhound Bus Station, Humphreys Foundry, truck driver, and entrepreneur—
always demonstrating a strong work ethic. Erskine was known for his green
thumb, musical spirit, dancing and signature humor.
Erskine was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1954. He was known
for his unwavering faith and dedication to the Christian ministry. He found deep
comfort and wholeheartedly believed the Bible’s promise at John 11:25,26. “I
am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though
he dies, will come to life; and everyone who is living and exercises faith in me
will never die at all.”
He is survived by his children: Erskine Jr., Patricia F. Crumpler, Lawanda K.
Braggs, Herman R. Braggs Sr. (Stephanie), and Zondra Brown; along with
many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces,
nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his son Donald W. Braggs, his sisters: Lue Pope,
Ida B. Ford, Mary Jane Tate, and Hattie Brown; and his brothers: Johnnie Berl,
Herman, James Allen, Will, and Alma Braggs.
Though we mourn his absence, we rejoice in the hope of welcoming him back
in Jehovah’s promised new world—a hope he cherished to the end.
KINGDOM HALL – CENTRAL OAKLAND
Opening Song…..........................#158 “It Will Not Be Late”
Opening Prayer………...…...…Brother Jonathan Saddler
https://Obituary......................................Brother Michael Williams
Discourse……...……………….. Brother Rene Brumfield
Personal Reflections…….…Brother Isaac Patton
Acknowledgements…….……Brother Ray Braggs
Closing Song.…………............#111 “He Will Call”
Closing https://Prayer……………….........Brother Daniel Coakley
The Family of Erskine Braggs Sr Acknowledgement
Please know that words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude for
the outpouring of love, support, compassion, and kindness shown
during our time of grief. Your comforting words, prayers, visits,
cards, and thoughtful gestures have been a source of strength and
encouragement. Each act of compassion reminded us of the deep
bonds we share and the hope that sustains us. (John 5:28, 29)
Warm Christian Love
What’s your fondest memory of Erskine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Erskine?
Share a story where Erskine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Erskine you’ll never forget.
How did Erskine make you smile?