Patsy Jane Bragg, a cherished member of the Williamsburg community, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 93. A native of Arkansas, she made Virginia her home for over five decades, where she became known for her warmth, energy, and unwavering determination.
Born to Tomlinson Newton Means, a farmer and educator, and Martha Barris Jorgenson Means, Patsy was the youngest of twelve children. Her family had deep roots in Calhoun County, Arkansas. After graduating from Hampton High School, she attended Henderson State Teachers College in Arkadelphia but left early to join her sisters in Washington, D.C., following World War II. She later completed her education at the University of Maryland, College Park, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Patsy’s career was marked by her dedicated service in the federal government. She worked across various branches of the military, including a notable five-year stint with the United States Navy’s Military Sea Transportation Service. Her commitment culminated in a thirty-year tenure with the office of the Air Force Surgeon General, where she held the position of Director of Congressional and Public Affairs. She was particularly proud of her advocacy efforts for salary and health benefits for military medical personnel and their families, as well as her role in establishing military physician assistant and midwifery programs.
Among her many accolades, she received the prestigious Association of Military Surgeons Medal for her advocacy and health policy support related to military survivors of Operation Ranch Hand, a controversial program involving the aerial spraying of defoliants during the Vietnam War.
In addition to her government service, Patsy enjoyed a successful second career in real estate with Long and Foster, where she rapidly established herself as one of the top-selling agents in the Tidewater region.
Patsy’s retirement allowed her to embrace her passions, which included spending time with her grandchildren, her beloved dog Frisky, and playing golf as a long-time member of the Williamsburg Country Club.
She is preceded in death by her son, Kevin Bragg, and granddaughter, Patricia Collake. She is survived by her daughters, Sherrie Lessans (Douglas), Debra Bragg, Sandra Mills (Jeff), and Michael Bragg (Sheena). Additionally, she leaves behind grandchildren Harrison Lessans, Robyn Lessans (Dani), and Alexandra LaPrevotte (Robert Dumville), along with one great-grandchild, Daniel Swinson.
Patsy was surrounded by a loving community of friends, neighbors, and caregivers who appreciated her vibrant spirit and tenacity.
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. Following the service, a lunch reception will take place. Interment will be private for family at Williamsburg Memorial Park.
