Leroy’s Farewell

Harold “Leroy” Bracken, age 72, left this world for a better place on Sunday, February 18, 2024.

He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Maria “Elena” Bracken. They resided in Linden, VA together. He is also survived by his son, Walter Junior Bracken Sigg; daughter-in-law, Lydia Beth Bracken; and four grandchildren, Eliana Bracken, Charlie Bracken Sigg, Willow Bracken and Scarlett Bracken, who will all hold him forever in their hearts.

Leroy was a generous man, who loved nothing better than to find out you needed help with an outdoor project involving machinery. He continued working until his last week, never losing his interest in his profession. He enjoyed operating the heavy equipment, cutting clean, straight lines and seeing a construction site take shape under his skilled operation. He developed his own system of measuring which worked better for him than any new technology brought in to assist. Asking him about his system brought a light to his eyes and he chuckled as he explained trying to show it to younger guys on the crew. He will be greatly missed at work as well as home.

When Leroy said, “Call if you need anything,” you knew he meant it. It was never a statement made only to be polite. He was disappointed if you didn’t call for help, never bothered by it.

Leroy was born on Friday, March 30, 1951. His younger years he spent in Pennsylvania, growing up with five sisters in a rollicking joyful childhood filled with teasing and love. His parents were Harold Alexander Bracken and Edna Marie Bracken, who resided in Johnstown, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his sister, Judy Syster; brother-in-law, John Shingle; and nephew, Roger Barnes. He is survived by sisters, Nancy Shingle (d. John Shingle), Janice Barnes (James Barnes), Leona Bezek (Michael Bezek), and Patty Bracken; and many other loving relatives including cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed at their family gatherings and celebrations.

Leroy loved antiquing, going to flea markets, shopping with Elena and attending fairs and events with family. He enjoyed driving in his big four-door trucks and collecting tools to be ever-ready for the next project. He could often be found watching his favorite television shows or dining out with his wife and family.

We miss you, Leroy. We look forward to seeing you again.

Viewing will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm at Maddox Funeral Home, 105 W. Main St., Front Royal, VA. Burial will be immediately following at 2:00 p.m. in Prospect Hill Cemetery, 200 West Prospect St., Front Royal, VA. A ceremony will be held at the burial site. Randy Clark with Fellowship Bible Church will be officiating.

After his burial, gather with us at Cracker Barrel, 15 Riverton Commons Plaza, Front Royal, VA to spend time together in memory of Leroy.

Pallbearers will be Walter Bracken, Bill Bezek, Marty Bezek, Tommy Chaffins, Ronnie Moore, and Craig Thomas,

Please remember us in your prayers as we adjust to life without Leroy’s presence.