Obituary

Bracken, Barbara Ann “Bibs” (Gatins), 93, of Johnstown, peacefully went Home to be with the Lord she loved on July 10, 2026. Barbara was born in Johnstown on September 17, 1932.  She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, and was immensely proud of her family. She treasured her children and grandchildren and valued every moment with them. She leaves behind beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Barbara had a vivacious personality and always made people smile. She immediately became a friend to all the lives she touched and always put others needs before her own.

Barbara was a phone operator, employed at Bethlehem Steel, Sun Drug, Jolly Rogers and D&D Restaurant. She was a partner in running Checker’s Pizza, the family business for 10 years.   Sundays were her special day; she looked forward to attending church and was a long time member of Calvary United Methodist Church. Every Sunday she looked forward to the visit with her niece and husband insisting she serve cake and watch more church services. Barbara loved her monthly Breakfast Club, visiting with her twin cousins and other family members at Jax.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Emmett and Myrtle Mae (Studt) Gatins; brother, John Gatins; sister, Mary Catherine Snoby; aunts Mable and Ethel Studt; husband, Raymond M. Bracken; sons, John David and Barry Allen; grandsons, Matthew Malinovsky and Tyler Winter; and companion, Robert Snoby, Sr. She is survived by her children, TR Bracken (Leann); Mary Lynn Mahla (David); Susan Bracken; and Kevin Bracken (Patty); 17 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Barbara had a strong conviction as a Christian and belief in God. She set an example of amazing faith, perseverance and strength throughout her life. No matter what the situation, she resolved many things with a quiet dignity. She had a true “red-headed Irish” disposition and was a “survivor”. As she goes from this world to God’s embrace singing and dancing to her Alan Jackson gospel music, she will be missed immensely. There will be a celebration of her life on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Calvary United Methodist Church, 159 Chandler Avenue, Johnstown, PA 15906. The service will also be live streamed on Calvary’s Facebook page. In honor of Barbara, if you are so moved, wear pink, her favorite color, as we celebrate her life.

Barbara had exceptional caregivers Abby, Doug, Daisy, Elnora, Izzy, Joanne, Melanie, Michelle, Monica, Nataiya, Tara and Vicki. They made it possible for her to stay in her home. She loved each of them and they spoiled her. Also special thanks to the West End Paramedics, Conemaugh’s Emergency team, Surgical team, nursing and caregivers on Rose and Ashman 9, Palliative care team, Sierra, and Dani at Homestead Hospice, they made a difficult situation comforting.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Barbara Ann (Gatins) Bracken to Heartland Hospice, 999 Eisenhower Blvd. Suite H, Johnstown, PA 15904, Heartlandhospice.com or The Palliative Care Unit at Conemaugh Memorial / Duke Lifepoint, 1086 Franklin St., Johnstown, PA 15905, for a comfort room.

Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com