J.B. Brantley, Jr.

Celebration of Life Services for Mr. J.B. Brantley, Jr. will be held Saturday, April 04, 2026, at 11:00AM at Valdosta Baptist Church 1975 Hwy 199 South - East Dublin, Georgia. Bishop Gregory K. Blue will serve as eulogist. Interment will follow at Valdosta Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.

J.B.(Harvey) Brantley, Jr., 84, of Dublin, Georgia, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026.

Born on February 25, 1942, in Laurens County, Georgia, he was the beloved son of the late Lucy and J.B. Brantley, Sr. He was also preceded in death by his siblings: Marshall Brantley, Opal McLendon, Lugene Thomas, Louise Ogburn, and Lassie Thomas.

Mr. Brantley was educated in the Laurens County School System and graduated from B.D. Perry High School. He later attended Atlanta Junior College. A man of quiet strength and unwavering character, he made history as one of the first Black police officers for the City of Dublin. This achievement broke racial barriers and opened doors for generations to come.

He later dedicated many years of service to Forstman Company and continued his career with Laurens County Public Works until his retirement. In addition to his professional accomplishments, J.B. worked beside his father on the family farm, honoring and continuing a legacy of hard work and stewardship of the land.

J.B. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He cherished time spent with his family, enjoyed watching football, and loved meaningful conversations with those close to him. He was also an avid follower of news and politics, always staying informed and engaged with the world around him.

He shared a loving and enduring union with his wife, Kay F. Watkins Brantley for 61 years. Together, they opened their home and hearts as foster parents to many children, giving love, structure, and opportunity to those who needed it most. Their marriage was blessed with five children: Daphanie (Corey) Harper, Tiffanie Brantley, Lecresicia (Micheal) Stallworth, Christopher (Jessica) Brantley, and Wynton Brantley.

He was the proud grandfather of Seth Anderson, Kaylon (DeMetris) Causer, Kailee (Dante’) Branch, Luke Anderson, Jaxson Marion, Ja’Darius Street, Ja’Quan Hicks, Jaelynn Brantley and Makayla Brantley; and great-grandfather to Sanaa and Sevyn Anderson.

He is also survived by two sisters, Rosetta B. May and Belinda B. Robinson; a devoted friend, Johnny Swint; a cherished cousin, Cecil Moore, Sr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

J.B. Brantley, Jr.’s legacy of dedication, service, perseverance, and love for his family will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew him.

Public viewing will be held Friday, April 3, 2026, from 11:00-7:00PM.

Serenity Funeral Home – Dublin has charge of arrangements.

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