Gynola Ann (McDonald) Bratton

Surrounded by her husband, sister, and daughter, Gynola Ann McDonald Bratton passed away in her home on June 18, 2021.

She lived a life of strong faith, which became even more evident during her year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. She studied her Bible up until her last days.

She joins her parents J.B. and Jeanette McDonald, brother Ronnie Gale McDonald and many other family members and friends in heaven.

She loved God, good food, good coffee, good music and unique antiques. She is looking down on her survivors—husband Rick Bratton, sister Robbie Lee McDonald, daughter Trish Costello-Villines (Jackson), sons Cole and Mason Bratton, and nephews Brian and Jason McDonald (and wives and children)—telling them to hold Psalm 46:10 in their hearts as they grieve.

Born on November 25, 1952, in Paragould, Ark., she spent most of her life in Benton, Ark. before moving to Harrison (Gaither area) in 2019. She considered her home and land in Harrison her slice of heaven on earth and poured herself into creating elaborate flower beds and enjoying God’s beauty. Her spunky spirit, silly Christmas gifts, eclectic decorating, five-dollar holiday cards, Hot Wheels, and dedication to her family will live on in those who knew her best. Hopefully, her cooking skills left this earth with her.

A small memorial will be held in the coming months in Benton and a Celebration of Life will take place on her land in the fall. She would ask everyone to remember her by saying their prayers, dancing randomly, or through a small act of genuine kindness. Cards may be mailed to Rick Bratton or Trish Villines at her home address: 1881 May Lane, Harrison, Arkansas 72601.