Joe W. Bratcher III

We have lost a kind and gentle soul. Joe Warlick Bratcher III passed July 28, 2022 in Austin Texas.

Joe was a father, a teacher, a business owner, a visionary, a film maker, a musician, a philanthropist, and a founder.

Joe received a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Tulane University and a PhD in English literature from the University of Texas at Austin. He married Elzbieta Szoka and had two sons, Adam and Ian Bratcher.

During his time living in New York City, he was a Professor of literature and writing, and produced two films, Screen Door Jesus and Welcome to Academia. He also started and ran a publishing house, Host Publications, which published an annual literary magazine called the Dirty Goat and several books of poetry and prose.

In 2010, Joe returned to Austin Texas where he pursued his lifelong dream of opening a bookstore, which he named Malvern Books. Through this endeavor, Joe cemented himself as a pillar of the Austin literary community. Malvern Books is home to a unique collection of literature and poetry that is truly is one of a kind. Joe’s podcast, Host Dispatch, contributed thoughtful discussions about literature with splashes of humor sprinkled throughout.

Joe’s philanthropy extended into a vast array of communities. He founded Adam’s Music House, a house dedicated to sharing the joy of classical piano with the community by offering free recitals and master classes. Joe was a supporter of KMFA, Austin’s local classical radio station, as well as the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

Joe was deeply passionate about human rights and was a supporter of Amnesty International and the Center for Survivors of Torture. Joe was a curious soul, a world traveler, and a lover of golf. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of this first grandchild, Cadence.

Joe is preceded in death by parents Joe and Rhobie Bratcher and his son Adam Bratcher. He is survived by his son Ian Bratcher (Maddie Goforth). He is also survived by his sisters Wendy Albrecht and Brigid Cockrum, nieces and nephews Alex Cockrum (Megan Crocker), Aaron Albrecht (Beth Albrecht), Lauren Albrecht (Richard Watson), and Annie Tate Cockrum, and great nieces and nephews Orion, Banyan, Fawn, and Izzy.

He was well loved by all friends and family and the Austin literary community. Our hearts will be empty without him and we will remember his compassion, kindness, wisdom, and wit.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to provide support to AdamsMusicHouse.org