Alfred Ray Brantley was born on August 21, 1945 to the late Leon Brantley Sr. and Mary Ella Robinson of Corpus Christi, Texas. He was welcomed into his heavenly home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 27, 2018.
Alfred began his spiritual journey at an early age as a youth member of St. Johns Baptist Church, Corpus Christi, Texas, as well as attending elementary school at Holy Cross Catholic School. He continued on to serve the body of Christ as a leader by his commitment as a Trustee Board member at Freedom Home Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor O. B. Howard. Alfred later served as Deacon at Emmanuel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Raymond Fennell.
Alfred attended Roy Miller High School, where upon graduating in 1963, he entered the U.S. Army for a brief stint, and in 1967 enlisted into the U.S. Air Force. After faithfully serving our country and traveling the world extensively for 22 years, Alfred retired as Master Sergeant in 1986. During his tenure in the Air Force, Alfred continued his education, earning various certifications and an Associate degree from San Antonio College. After his military retirement, he worked at the Austin State Hospital for a short time until he gained employment with the U.S. Postal Service where he worked as a Mail Handler until his second retirement in 2010.
Alfred was a man with a huge, giving heart. If there was anything he had that anyone needed, he would without a doubt give it, along with a lesson. He was an advocate for education and reflected that passion in his actions. If he encountered an individual that he saw desire, drive and ambition, he worked hard to help them achieve their educational goals. He also stood in the gap as a father figure for many individuals. Affectionately called Pops, Mr. B., and Mr. Al, he often had a word of advice for those that wanted to listen and receive.
Alfred loved celebrating special dates and holidays with family and friends. He felt that everyone should be celebrated. His greatest loves were spending time with family and friends, cooking and playing golf. An ideal weekend for him would be to get in a few rounds of golf, return home, turn on some music and cook up some of his favorite recipes. Alfred spent his retirement enjoying these favorite things until a decline in his health would not allow him to.
Alfred, was preceded in death by his parents (above), his oldest brother Leon Brantley Jr., oldest sister, Jewel Love Hill and step son Ronald Lynn Alexander. He leaves behind his loving wife, of 11 years, 10 months and 11 days Marilyn Matthews-Brantley, his daughter Tangy Yvonne Brantley-Manor (Donnie), step daughters Letosha Matthews, Letecia Matthews and step son Donald Matthews; his prior wife, Minnie Brantley-Davis (Melvin), step sons Kevin Leon Alexander (Nicole) and Alfred Ray Carter (Nicole). Grandchildren: Emerald Manor, Jordan Manor, Michael Crockett, Megan Matthews, Courtney Matthews, Donovan Matthews, Christopher Bolden, Armani Carter, Madison Carter, Dominic Baltas & Kado Sampson. Adopted Granddaughter: Osadone Miligan. Great granddaughter: Maleigha Matthews. Siblings: August Brantley (Dorothy), Evelyn Boutte (Leo). In-Laws: Joseph Lee Matthews (Hattie), Samuel Matthews (JoAnn), Danny L. Matthews, David L. Matthews, Patricia Jones, Vanessa Matthews. Endearing Cousins: John R. Gaines (Cynthia), Gladys Gaines-Howard, Bettie Jean Bundage (Fred). And a host of special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
The visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 13, 2018 at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas. The Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 14, 2018 in The Memorial Chapel of the funeral home.
