Bessie Kathryn Braswell

Bessie Kathryn Braswell, age 97, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026. She was born on March 4, 1929, in Homeland, Florida, to Charles Wesley Watson and Bessie Elizabeth Mizelle Watson.

Kathryn grew up in Homeland and spent the remainder of her life in Bartow, Florida, where she built a life centered on family, and hard work. She worked for many years as a sectionizer for Ben Hill Griffin Citrus and was known for her dedication and strong work ethic.

She was a longtime member of Wildwood Baptist Church.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Bill Braswell; her sisters Dorothy Hancock and Lucille Bridges and her brothers, Seger Watson, Morris Watson, and James Watson.

She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Baker (Gerald), and her son, Bill Braswell (Cathy). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Michael Baker, Steven Baker, Shari Wolfe, and Tyson Dunlap; along with ten great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Bessie will be remembered for her deep love of family, her quiet strength, and her beautiful home and lawn she was so proud of.

Graveside service will be 2:00 pm Friday, March 13, 2026 at Wildwood Cemetery in Bartow, FL.  Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com