Thomas Gary Braden

Thomas Gary Braden, 86, passed away on Saturday June 17, 2023. Gary was born on May 31, 1937 in his grandmother's house next to Bird Creek in Avant Oklahoma. He was the eldest son of Raymond Ruben “Spooks” Braden and Jennie B Braden, his late brother Don Braden is with him.

Gary grew up in Borger, Texas and studied business at Eastern New Mexico University. He was a hard worker going from Phillips 66 to oil field work to a career as a sales representative. He was an outgoing, charismatic, and a charming person. A true extrovert he was always ready to meet and get to know new people in both work life and around the barbecue. He was fair and fun but also stern when needed. An honest sense of integrity meant you always knew he would tell you how it is even if it was harsh. Gary was the traditional image of a husband and dad. He loved cooking outdoors and working on his yard and garden. When relaxing he would either be playing poker with his buddies, watching every John Wayne movie ever made, or studying American history (usually World War II). A beloved father, grandfather, friend, and husband.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Beverly Joan Braden and his children Piper Wofford, and Gary Todd Braden. Gary was an amazing grandfather to eight grandchildren: Thomas Gary Braden II, Jessica Nicole Banks, Joseph Lee Wofford, Elliott Todd Braden, Jonathan Murphy Braden, Joshua Charles Wofford, Katherina Eileen Braden, and Natasha LeeAnn Braden. He was also a great grandfather to twelve great grandchildren: Sophia Lee Braden, Lily Ray Braden, Dante Alexander Banks, Jasmine Nicole Banks, Malachi Gaberial Compton, Anna Jolene Rose Compton, Aiden Connor, Isacc Todd Braden, Joel Bjorn Braden, Lailynn Rain Braden, Paige Dean, Fayja Nicole Braden, and a new great grand baby in November 2023.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Rose Hill Burial Park in Oklahoma City.