Naomi Elizabeth James VanGorder Bragg passed away peacefully in her home December 9, 2018. She was born December 11, 1918 near Mansfield, Illinois to Bert and Nora James. She was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, and two brothers. 

 

She graduated from Stephens College with an Associates Liberal Arts Degree in 1939.

 

She married Beryl VanGorder. He passed away in 1941. Their son, Stephen, survives her. 

 

In 1945 she married Robert Bragg who passed away in 2004. Their children Ann Eckert (Roger), Bruce Bragg (Mary Margaret), and Margi Leigh (Myron) also survive her. Additionally, she is survived by seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild plus many nieces and nephews.

 

Her life’s love language was acts of service. Her displays of kindness are too numerous to mention, though many will fondly remember that she gave many years of service to the Carle Hospital Auxiliary and baked numerous red velvet and angel food cakes for those she loved.

 

Her 100th birthday was celebrated early while friends and family were with her for the Thanksgiving holiday. 

 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made in her name to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (www.JDRF.org) or that of the donor’s choice.