Patsy Jane Bragg, a respected member of the Williamsburg, Virginia community, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 93. Originally from Arkansas, she dedicated over five decades to her adopted home of Virginia, becoming well-known for her extensive career in public service and later in real estate.
Born in Woodberry, Arkansas, on an unspecified date, Patsy was the daughter of Tomlinson Newton Means, a farmer and teacher, and Martha Barris Jorgenson Means, a homemaker. She was the last surviving sibling of twelve children, with deep roots in Calhoun County. After graduating from Hampton High School, she attended Henderson State Teachers College before moving to Washington, D.C., to join her sisters following World War II. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Throughout her professional life, Bragg served as a civil service employee, making significant contributions to nearly all 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. There, she advanced to the role of Director of Congressional and Public Affairs, advocating for salary and health benefits for military medical personnel and their families. She played a pivotal role in establishing military physician assistant and midwifery programs.
Bragg’s contributions did not go unrecognized; she received numerous honors, including the prestigious Association of Military Surgeons Medal for her support of health policies benefiting military survivors of the Operation Ranch Hand program, which had lasting implications from the Vietnam War.
In addition to her government service, Bragg transitioned into a successful career in real estate after retirement, joining Long and Foster. She quickly rose from being a top rookie to one of the leading agents in the Tidewater region, showcasing her remarkable ability to connect with clients.
Bragg’s later years were filled with cherished activities, including time spent with her grandchildren, her beloved dog Frisky, and playing golf as a member of the Williamsburg Country Club. Her family includes children Sherrie Lessans (Douglas), Debra Bragg, Sandra Mills (Jeff), and Michael Bragg (Sheena), as well as grandchildren Harrison Lessans, Robyn Lessans (Dani), Alexandra LaPrevotte (Robert Dumville), and great-grandchild Daniel Swinson. She was preceded in death by her son, Kevin Bragg, and granddaughter Patricia Collake.
Bragg’s vibrant spirit and determination to live life fully resonated with those around her. She leaves behind a community of friends, neighbors, and caregivers who will remember her warmth and energy.
Funeral services for Patsy Bragg will take place at 11:30 a.m. on August 5, 2025, at Bucktrout Funeral Home, located at 4124 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. A reception will follow the service, with interment planned as a private family affair at Williamsburg Memorial Park.