James Daniel Brantingham

James Daniel Brantingham, surrounded by family and the love of his many friends, passed away April of 2023 while living in the Washington DC area. Daniel was born in Illinois and grew up in Arizona, as one of six children to John and Ann Brantingham.

Daniel was a beloved husband, a loving father, a loyal brother and a crazy fun uncle. He and Karen, his college sweetheart and wife of 34 years, enjoyed local exploring and traveling the world together. They would often entertain friends and colleagues at their home and Daniel would serve his perfected Chocolate Oozy Lava Cake for dessert. He enjoyed history, reading, outdoor adventures - hiking, biking, camping - and loved strategy games from an early age. Some of his favorite pastimes included watching his son Nathan’s College basketball games and cheering for his Alma Mater’s rugby team. He was deeply devoted to patronizing Chick-fil-A, driving his 2002 silver Mazda Protege, playing ball with his beloved Boston Terrier, MAX, and praying for his team, the Chicago Bears. Daniel is survived by his wife, son, three brothers two sisters and their spouses, two brother-in-laws and their wives, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

With the loving support of his family and his endorsing Church (The First Church of Christ, Scientist), Daniel faithfully served Airmen, Guardians and their families as an active duty US Air Force Chaplain from 1994 to 2023. During his 29 year career, he served his country with honor and integrity. The military clearly acknowledged his superb leadership skills throughout his service. Later in his career, he was given challenging assignments, including Cadet Wing Chaplain at the USAF Academy, where he responded to religious and ethical issues receiving national attention. More recently, he served as Command Chaplain to United States Air Forces Europe-Air Forces Africa, Ramstein AB, Germany; and then as Command Chaplain for Air Mobility Command, Scott AFB, IL. In 2021, as a result of his exceptional work in these positions, Chaplain Brantingham was named Deputy Chief of Chaplains, Headquarters, USAF, the Pentagon. In January 2023, when the Chaplain Corps no longer needed his leadership, Chaplain Brantingham began work as Deputy, Integrated Resilience, Headquarters, USAF, the Pentagon. Renewed and energized, he continued to serve and care in new ways for Airmen and Guardians.

In faith, with family and in ministry, Daniel often quoted Micah 6:8.

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”

Daniel lived Micah 6:8 as a man of faith, integrity, and moral courage who compassionately cared for others. His example has blessed countless people, and they said of him…“Rock solid council and a stalwart example to me.” “A pastoral soul, a divinely inspired man.” “I cherish the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the way he cared for people.”

Daniel was indeed, a blessed man. He had many friends who cared deeply for him. His friends said of him…“One of my most cherished friendships, he was like a brother to me.” “One of the kindest and greatest men we’ve ever known, we had the privilege of calling him our friend.” “He stood with me when I was alone, when no one else would.” “His support, caring and love were endless.”

“Consider the incredible love that the Father has shown us in allowing us to be called “children of God”—and that is not just what we are called, but what we are. Our heredity on the Godward side is no mere figure of speech—which explains why the world will no more recognise us than it recognised Christ.” I John 3:1 (Phillips)

James Daniel Brantingham’s Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at 2:00pm. Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Main Chapel, Washington DC. His ashes will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the following or your charity of choice.

Albert Baker Fund:

An organization that helps Christian Science youth with funding to further their education.

https://support.albertbakerfund.org/give/429338/?_gl=1*wwy9mb*_ga*NTc4MDE1MTU3LjE2ODE1NzIyOTg.*_up*MQ..#!/donation/checkout?c_src=Website&c_src2=FY23_Gen_ABF_TopNavLink

Longyear Museum:

https://store.longyear.org/product/DON-100-101/annual-appeal

Principia College Mens Basketball Program:

https://www.principiagiving.org/brantingham