Superintendent Lawrence C. Brackens Sr.

Life Journey of Superintendent Lawrence Brackens, Sr.

February 2, 1943 – June 5, 2025Superintendent Lawrence Brackens, Sr., a devoted husband, father, pastor, and faithful servant of God, entered eternal rest on June 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 82 years old.Born on February 2, 1943, in Houston, Texas, Lawrence was one of nine children born to the late J.B. Clinton Brackens and Jewel Clough Brackens. He spent his early childhood in Houston, where he attended school and began to develop the strong values of faith,perseverance, and love that would guide his life.At a young age Lawrence relocated to Amarillo, Texas. It was there he would go on to enjoy along and honorable career with Asarco Refinery, where he worked diligently until his retirement.Known for his work ethic, humility, and character, Lawrence earned the admiration of all who worked alongside him.After retiring, he moved to Huntsville, Texas, in 1996, where he would continue his lifelong dedication to the service of God and community. In 1997, he was united in holy matrimony to his beloved wife, Joann Brackens. Their union lasted until her passing in 2009. A man led by faith and purpose, Lawrence was a devoted member of Greater Gospel Hill Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Pastor Andy Polk. On October 23, 1999, Lawrence answered the call to pastoral leadership when he was appointed Pastor of Westside Church of God in Christ in Trinity, Texas.In August 2010, Lawrence married Missionary Gwendolyn Brackens, and their love and partnership in ministry blossomed into a beautiful union rooted in service, care, and mutual devotion. At this time he became Pastor of Bible Way Church of God in Christ in New Willard,Texas, where he continued to shepherd God’s people with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith.Superintendent Brackens was deeply loved and admired for his gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and fierce dedication to his family and his calling. He truly fought a good fight, keeping the faith and finishing his course with dignity and grace. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched as a pastor, mentor, friend, husband, and father.He is preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings: Clinton Lee Brackens, Roosevelt Brackens, Otha Lee Brackens, Matthew Brackens, Willie Ed Brackens, Charles Henry Brackens, and Wanda Sue Brackens Augustine.He leaves to cherish his memory:● His devoted and loving wife of 15 years, Missionary Gwendolyn Brackens● His children: Lawrence Brackens, Jr., Dewain Brackens, Chris Brackens, Kendra Brackens, Nacole Boston (Bernard), Derrika Jackson (Earnest), Christopher Petties (Katrina), and Aisha Petties● 20 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren● His surviving siblings: Jimmy Lee Brackens (Effie) of Houston, TX; Prince Albert Brackens (Demetrice) of Houston, TX; Mary M. Brackens Kittrell of Huntsville, TX; and Rowena Brackens Hubbard of Houston, TX● A host of nieces, nephews, spiritual children, and church family who loved and respected him dearly Lawrence Brackens, Sr. was a man who gave his all—to God, to his family, to his church, and to anyone in need. He will be remembered for his humility, strength, wisdom, and an unmatched heart of service. His memory and ministry will continue to inspire generations to come.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant…” — Matthew 25:21

Active Pallbearers: Reginald Lyons, John Jordan, Eld. George Wyatt, Archie Grisby, Edward Kittrell, Earnest Jackson Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers: Nathaniel Grisby, Stanley Kittrell, Lawrence Nawls, Eld. Bernard Boston, Jimmy Brackens, Eld. Byron Lyons, Stanley Morris, Chris Brackens, Otto Lyons, Steve Lyons, Joe Lyons, Willie Lyons.