Betty J.

Bracken

Pastor Betty Bracken, 78, of Toledo, Ohio, ascended to glory on August 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

A devoted woman of God, Pastor Bracken dedicated her life to faith, family, and service to others. Her love for the Lord was evident in everything she did. She loved church and everything that encompassed it—from worship and fellowship to prayer, teaching, preaching, and reaching those who needed to know Christ.

Her professional life was also one of service. Pastor Bracken was a respiratory therapist who served for 35 years at St. Charles Hospital before retiring. Throughout her career, she cared for countless patients and families with the same compassion and concern that characterized her life outside of work.

In 1996, Pastor Bracken founded Redeeming Temple Church, where she faithfully served as Pastor until her homegoing. Her 50-year evangelism ministry was marked by an unwavering passion for reaching the lost and bringing hundreds of souls to Christ. She later founded New and Fresh Start Ministries, continuing the work to which she had devoted so much of her life.

Pastor Bracken was especially known for her altar calls. She had a heart for reaching people and ministering to them through the power of the Holy Ghost. Whether from the pulpit, at the altar, or through a personal conversation, she wanted people to know Christ and experience the transforming power of God for themselves.

Ministry was not confined to the church walls for Pastor Betty. She was always helping someone. She was welcoming, giving, and willing to extend herself to people in need. Family and friendship were deeply important to her, and she treasured the time she spent with those she loved. Those closest to her knew and loved her youthful spirit, which remained a beautiful part of who she was throughout her life. Her vibrant personality and genuine love for people made her presence something family and friends will always remember.

Her life reflected both strength and tenderness: a Pastor who could boldly proclaim the Word of God, a servant who would help someone in need, and a mother, grandmother, sister, relative, and friend who deeply loved her family.

Pastor Betty leaves to cherish her memory her children, Ernest Maurice Bracken (Yolanda), Monica Leavitt (Edward), and Aaron Bracken; her grandchildren, Rebecca, James, Matthew, and Josiah; her great-grandchildren, Brice Hydelbeerg, Nadia Nowak, and Brielle Bracken; her siblings, Raynard Ford and Bishop Leanza Ford (Lisa); along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, church family, spiritual sons and daughters, and all whose lives were touched by her ministry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Quarley and Dorothy Ford; and her siblings, Quarley Ford, Jr., Patricia Tripplet, Rosalee Sanders and John Ford.

Pastor Betty Bracken leaves behind more than memories. She leaves a legacy of faith, service, evangelism, family, and love. The churches she founded, the people she ministered to, the souls she helped lead to Christ, and the family she loved are all part of that legacy.

Although her earthly ministry has come to an end, the seeds she planted will continue to bear fruit through the lives of those she touched.

Her work is finished. Her faith has become sight. And her legacy will live on.