William "Bill" Allen Brantley

On Wednesday, February 22, 2023, heaven gained a sweet, hardworking man and a legendary mechanic in his day, William A. "Bill' Brantley, age 76. Even after losing both legs in 2016, he never gave up on life and persisted to be a fighter until the end.

He was born to Bernice Fulcher Brantley and Willis "Andy" Brantley in June 1946. Bill grew up with 11 other siblings and was a strong-willed young man. After graduating high school, he joined the 101st Airborne Division. He loved jumping from planes during the Vietnam War and was a very proud Veteran. He lived a great life and had some difficult falls later in life until God took him home to become new again on Wednesday, much against family wishes.

Bill started employment at Scott-McGaw's and became a top mechanic. Within a few years, he became a successful business entrepreneur at an early age by opening his own business, until it was destroyed by fire in 1996.

He loved taking trips and driving in the fast lane, dancing, and living life to its fullest. His love for NASCAR was a true passion as he made several trips to Daytona, Bristol, and Talladega Speedways. He was always inspired by his role model, Dale Earnhardt, and during NASCAR season, he would be glued to the TV watching his infamous driver make his way to the front line with no-holds-barred. Those were the days of racing, same with ole Bill. Those who knew him well back in the 90s knew him to always be wearing that Dale Earnhardt t-shirt and cap with his beverage in his koozie.

Bill would always let you know his opinion whether you wanted to hear it or not. He was shy by no means and would start a conversation with whomever. Either you liked him, or you didn't. He was always willing to help those in need and give his last dime to help those in need. He always did work for "free" for those who couldn't afford it. Most of all he loved his wife and children dearly.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Cynthia "Cindy" Brantley of Henderson, KY; daughter, Tammy Willett-Speaks (Joe) of Henderson, KY; sons, Dax Brantley of Henderson, KY and Grant Merrick of Henderson, KY; grandchildren, Ashton Embry (Matt) and Autumn Hansbrough (Brennen); great grandchildren, Avery, Blakely, Paxton Embry & Hinson, and baby Gatlin (to be here soon) Hansbrough; sisters, Doris Dudley, Barbara Gentry (Eugene), Lavada Townsend, Sue Kurtz, Judy Summers, Sherrie McCormick, and Linda Phillips; great friend, Scotty Hanville (Jo) of Henderson, KY; nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by both his parents, Willis "Andy" Brantley and Bernice Griffin; and brothers, Paul Brown, Walter Lee Brantley, and Billy Joe Brown.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, February 27 at Tomblinson Funeral Home in Henderson.

Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Henderson, KY.

Relatives and friends are invited to Bill's Life Celebration on Monday, February 27 from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Pallbearers will be Dax Brantley, Matt Embry, Scotty Hanville, Tony Payne, Joe Speaks, and Clifton Krahwinkel.