Lorena was born on June 22, 1957 in Clinton, Missouri to Cecil Bratton and Claudette Seals. She spent her childhood in Kansas City and Knob Noster, Missouri and graduated from Knob Noster High School in 1976.
Lorena spent 30 years traveling as an Air Force spouse with James Harris, Jr., and raising her three children. She lived at Spokane, Washington, Fairchild Air Force Base; Vandenburg Air Force Base in California; Scott Air Force Base in Illinois; Ramstein Air Force Base in the country Germany; and returned to Scott Air Force Base. During this time, she dedicated her life as a stay-at-home mom. Lorena settled down in Denver, Colorado and re-married to Verdock A. Barnes. They loved the peace and serenity of the mountains that surrounded Green Valley Ranch where they resided in their home.
Lorena passed peacefully from this life after a gradual decline in health. She was surrounded and supported by her loving family and caregivers during the last days of her life.
Lorena is survived by three children: Tamara Burns (Frederic), Taleka Perry, and James Harris, III (Amy); her husband Verdock Barnes; five grandchildren: Brioenne Burns, Dominyck Harris, Bailey Burns, Christian Perry, and Christopher Perry. Lorena is also survived by both of her parents and Mom Barbara Bratton; siblings: Michelle Bratton, Brian Bratton, Michael Montgomery, Melinda Simon, Cecil Bratton, Jr, Gilda Weber, Kelly Holliday, Mia Benton, Andrew Gant, and Benjamin Watson.
Two siblings preceded Lorena in death: Edwin Bratton and Michelle Denning. Lorena is also survived by a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends who were a special part of her life.
Mom,
You were the best, and you meant the world to me. I will always love you and I cannot wait to see you again.
Love always and forever,
Your Daughter- Tammy
Aunt Rena was such a beautiful soul. Always sharing an encouraging word. A group of family and friends would fast together every January and Aunt Rena was always the first person to respond with an encouraging word and would not hesitate to share and demonstrate her wisdom, devotion and love for God. And she was one of the classiest and stylish women I know! I always loved watching to see what Aunt Rena was gonna wear. Taleka would always tell me I reminded her so much of Aunt Rena and I consider that the highest compliment! You will be missed but your love and legacy live on through your beautiful children and grandchildren who continue to make our family so proud!
I love you Aunt Rena! You will remain in my heart forever!