Lavon Wills Bratten

LaVon W. Bratten departed this life for her eternal home with our Lord on April 18, 2025, following a lengthy health battle. She was surrounded by the love of family and friends in her final moments. The heavens have opened their gates to welcome her, and we know she is now singing with the Heavenly Choir.

LaVon was born on May 18, 1963, in Norristown, Pennsylvania. She was educated in the Norristown Public School system, where she proudly marched with the high school marching band as a member of the color guard and sang the National Anthem at every home football game. She graduated from Norristown Area High School in 1981.

A gifted and accomplished vocalist from an early age, LaVon pursued her passion for music at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, earning a degree in Vocal Music Performance in 1985. She was also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She continued her musical studies in opera at Temple University.

After relocating to Wilmington, Delaware, LaVon became an active member of the Wilmington/Chester Mass Choir, performing and recording several albums with the group. She worked at Nationwide Insurance Company as a Claims Adjuster before moving to Essex, Maryland, where she continued her career as a Senior Claims Adjuster with Travelers Insurance Company, eventually retiring from that role.

Despite living in Maryland, LaVon remained deeply connected to her musical roots, serving as a Staff Singer at Grace United Methodist Church in Wilmington.

To those who knew and loved her, LaVon’s spirit was infectious. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. Her kind words, comforting presence, and angelic voice touched many lives. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend. Family meant everything to LaVon, and she never missed an opportunity to show her love and support.

LaVon was preceded in glory by her beloved mother, Dolores M. Wills; her grandmother, Dorothy McClennon; and her aunt, Willie Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memory:

• Her sons: Brandon Tyler Hundt (Kelsey) and Jordan Aubrey Miller (Rajaun)

• Her brothers: Stanley Ramon Wills (Cathy) and Andre’ Dion Wills

• Her aunt: Sandra Stephens

• Her nephews: Shelby Nelson and Christian Laurence Alexandre Wills

• Her nieces: Tiana Wills (Mike) and Lyric Andrea Wills (also her goddaughter)

LaVon also shared a very special and enduring relationship with Maurice “Poncho” Scales, whose loving care and support meant so much to her and to the family.