In the Southbridge neighborhood of Bixby, Oklahoma, the Brantley family has turned their annual Halloween display into a heartwarming community event. What started as a simple tradition of decorating their home with spooky elements has evolved into a meaningful food drive that brings neighbors together in the spirit of the season.

Turning Haunts into Helping Hands

A Family Affair

The Brantley home is a beacon of Halloween cheer, with the family adding new elements to their display every year. From tombstones to a homemade hearse, the Brantleys have transformed their yard into a spooky wonderland. But this family affair is more than just a personal passion – it's a way to connect with their community."We add on every year," says Sheryl Brantley, the matriarch of the family. "We've got Barry M Deep, and Barry D Alive," she adds, pointing out the unique names they've given to their tombstones.For the Brantley clan, this annual tradition is a chance to spend quality time together. "It's a good way definitely to spend time with my sister and my parents," says 15-year-old Alyssa, who shares her family's love for all things Halloween.

A Meaningful Twist

While many families deck their halls with death and decay this time of year, the Brantleys wanted to do more. "We thought, you know this is memorable but let's make it meaningful as well," says Sheryl.Enter the "Fill-the-Casket Food Drive," a unique initiative that combines the family's passion for Halloween with a desire to give back to their community. The idea was born from Sheryl's creative mind, and the family has embraced it wholeheartedly."Wife came up with 'fill-the-casket' so that's what we're going to try to do," says Kevin Brantley, Sheryl's husband.The food drive, which benefits the Bixby Outreach Center, encourages visitors to bring non-perishable items to fill up the actual caskets that are part of the family's display. "We have four caskets so if one gets too full we have three more," Sheryl explains.

A Community Effort

The Brantley's Halloween tradition has become a beloved event in the Bixby community, drawing in neighbors and strangers alike. For the family, the true joy comes from seeing the community come together to support a good cause."It's a good way definitely to spend time with my sister and my parents," says Alyssa, who has embraced the family's philanthropic efforts.Even the media attention the Brantleys have received has been a source of excitement for the family. "Somewhat, especially when you never been on the news or anything you're like oooh," says Kevin, acknowledging the thrill of being in the spotlight.As the Halloween season approaches, the Brantley family is eagerly anticipating another year of spooky fun and heartwarming community engagement. Their unique blend of haunts and helping hands has become a cherished tradition in Bixby, one that continues to bring people together in the spirit of the season.