James Michael Bracken

James Michael “Mike” Bracken, beloved son, father, grandfather and friend, gained his perfect Heavenly body on Friday, March 15, 2019.

Mike was born in Norfolk, Virginia on December 9, 1959 to Ruynelle Bracken and the late James Thomas Bracken. He was adored by his parents, aunts, uncles and cousins from day one.

To those who knew him, Mike was the hardest of workers, a dedicated employee, a loyal friend, a source of great wisdom and a compassionate human being. He was such a kind and loving man and people were just naturally drawn to him. He was clever, funny and knew the value of a witty remark. The mischievous grin that would follow those remarks is forever ingrained into our memories. He was an avid Clemson fan and felt blessed to see three national football titles in his lifetime.

Mike always felt that his greatest accomplishment was his family. He was a dedicated father from the start and he always said that he felt complete by seeing his children marry and then hold, love, and know his grandchildren. His grandchildren were everything to him. He loved nothing more than being able to sit down to a game of chess with them or finding out which subject they were learning about in school.

If it sounds like he was a great man, it’s because he really was. Go Tigers!

He is survived by his mother, Ruynelle Bracken, of Mauldin, his daughters, Christi Powell (Eric) of Fountain Inn, Shannon Fleming (Mitchell) of Calera, AL, his son, Joshua Bracken (Marisa) of Simpsonville, his grandchildren, Adyn, Abby, Liam, Leah, Lyla and Mallory, as well as aunts, uncles, countless cousins and friends.

Mike was predeceased by his dad, James, his sister, Karen Weldon and brother, Cody Smith.

A drop-in celebration of Mike’s life will be held at Heritage Funeral Home, located at 313 North Main Street, Simpsonville, on Saturday, March 23 from 2 pm until 4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation, in Mike’s name, to the
National Kidney Foundation
30 East 33rd Street
New York, NY 10016