Patsy Jane Bragg, a cherished member of the Williamsburg community, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Arkansas, she spent over five decades in Virginia, where she made significant contributions to both her family and her profession.
Bragg was the daughter of Tomlinson Newton Means, a farmer and educator, and Martha Barris Jorgenson Means, a dedicated homemaker. Growing up in a large family, she was the last surviving child of twelve, with deep roots in Calhoun County. After graduating from Hampton High School, she briefly attended Henderson State Teachers College before moving to Washington, D.C., to join her sisters following World War II. She later completed her studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Bragg dedicated a significant portion of her career to public service, working as a civil servant for various branches of the armed forces. Her tenure included five years with the Navy’s Military Sea Transportation Service and thirty years with the office of the Air Force Surgeon General. She rose to the position of Director of Congressional and Public Affairs, where she championed crucial advocacy efforts for military doctors, dentists, and their families. Among her numerous accolades, she received the prestigious Association of Military Surgeons Medal for her work supporting military survivors of Operation Ranch Hand, a controversial government program from the Vietnam War era.
Bragg’s commitment to community service extended beyond her government career. She served as the First Vice President of the Virginia Press Women and as a Regional Director of the National Federation of Press Women. After retiring from government service, she transitioned to a successful career in real estate with Long and Foster, where she quickly became one of the top-selling agents in the Tidewater region.
In her later years, Bragg enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, spending time with her family and pursuing her passions, including golf and caring for her beloved dog, Frisky. She is remembered fondly by her family and friends for her warmth, vitality, and indomitable spirit.
Bragg is survived by her children, Sherrie Lessans (Douglas), Debra Bragg, Sandra Mills (Jeff), and Michael Bragg (Sheena), along with grandchildren Harrison Lessans, Robyn Lessans (Dani), and Alexandra LaPrevotte (Robert Dumville), as well as one great-grandchild, Daniel Swinson. She was preceded in death by her son, Kevin Bragg, and granddaughter, Patricia Collake.
Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM on August 5, 2025, at Bucktrout Funeral Home, located at 4124 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. A reception will follow the service, and interment will be private for family members at Williamsburg Memorial Park.
Patsy J. Bragg’s legacy of dedication to family and community will remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
