Dr. Michael Brantley

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Dr. Michael Brantley, a dedicated dentist and community leader, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of exceptional service, both in the field of dentistry and within his community. He was born on December 15, 1944, in Monticello, Florida to Jerimiah Sr. and Arneda (Jenkins) Brantley.

Dr. Brantley's educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Morgan State College where he graduated in 1967. The following year, Dr. Brantley served as a Captain and a Chief Laboratory officer in the United States Army, demonstrating his commitment to both his country and the field of healthcare. After the military, Dr. Brantley attended and graduated from MeHarry Medical College, School of Dentistry in Nashville, TN where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He continued his education with a Dental Internship at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School and Martland Hospital in Newark, NJ, and furthered his expertise through various advanced educational trainings in dental specialties like Dental (Invisalign) Orthodontics, Advanced Bone Grafting, Advanced Dental Implantology, Sinus Lift Surgery, Biochemistry and Hematology, among others.

Dr. Brantley met and married the love of his life, Jacqueline, on July 12,1986. Throughout their 37 years together, they enjoyed a full life and were by each other’s side every step of the way. They enjoyed day trips to New York, attending the theater, as well as vacationing. They worked side by side in his dental practice and truly enjoyed spending time with their families.

 His career in dentistry was marked by unparalleled achievements and contributions. He served as the Director of the Dental Clinic at Jersey Shore Medical Center and held prominent positions at various medical facilities. Dr. Brantley owned and operated his family dental practice for over 35 years in Asbury Park, NJ.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Brantley was deeply involved in community service. He was an active member of the Monmouth County Men’s Club and a member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He was recognized with numerous awards, including the "Man of the Year" award from The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the Brookdale Community College Foundation’s "Health Care Service Award." He was inducted into the Neptune High School Hall of Fame in 2001 and on February 24th, 2001, the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders’ proclaimed it as “Michael Brantley D.D.S Day”. His commitment to community welfare was evident through his involvement in advisory councils, educational foundations, and as a committed public servant in Neptune Township, where he served multiple terms as Committeeman, Deputy Mayor, and Mayor.

His impact was felt not only in the dental community, where he was consistently recognized as one of the top dentists in Monmouth County in various surveys, but also in his political and civic engagements, including his role as Chairman of the Neptune Township Police Oversight Committee. Dr. Michael Brantley will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to excellence, his passion for service, and his profound impact on the lives of those he served. He was very dependable, especially when serving as a team member for the Brookside Road neighborhood block parties.

When Dr. Brantley wasn’t busy with politics or dentistry, you can find him relaxing at the movies, listening to Jazz, or drinking his favorite Coca Cola. He always had a huge smile on his face and his sense of humor was out of this world. He was very spiritual and lived by faith. He enjoyed nature, especially walking on the boards, working in his yard and he even harvested butterflies. He was a foodie- he loved home cooking, especially soul food from Jamison’s, At the Table, Simply Southern, Brewtons and Eileen’s.

Dr. Brantley was predeceased by his parents, Jerimiah Sr. and Arneda C. Brantley; and sister, Beatrice Ceciel Stewart.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Jacqueline Keel-Brantley of Neptune, NJ; aunt, Ollie Parker of Neptune, NJ; brother, Jerimiah Brantley (Leatrice), of Odenton, Maryland; three sisters, Kathleen Gay (Elwood) of Springfield, OH; Mary Louise Crawford and Nanette Isaac (Antonio), both from Trotwood, OH; sister-in-laws, Kyle Keel of Neptune, NJ; Frances Keel of Lawrence Twp, NJ; brother-in-laws, Garry Keel (Lenora) of Ewing, NJ and Varnell Keel (Carmen) of Edison, NJ; twenty-two first cousins, a host of second cousins, nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.

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