Jonathan Daniel Braswell

September 11, 1974 – April 29, 2025

Jonathan Daniel Braswell, age 50, passed away on April 29, 2025, in Mobile, Alabama. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held Saturday, May 17, at 10:30 a.m. at Life Church on Ziegler Boulevard in Mobile.

Jonathan was born on September 11, 1974, in Mobile, Alabama, to Richard Earl Braswell and the late Patricia Ann (Rice) Braswell. He graduated from Faith Academy and later earned a degree in Education from the University of South Alabama with a double major in History and Secondary Education.

After high school, Jonathan spent time with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) in Hawaii, where he received discipleship training and served as a camp counselor. This season of spiritual growth and service deeply influenced his heart for people and helped shape his lifelong desire to invest in others—especially the next generation.

Jonathan devoted his life to teaching, mentoring, and helping others reach their potential. He served as an educator in the Mobile County Public School System at Semmes Middle School, North Mobile K-8, Williamson High School and Preparatory Academy, Murphy High School, and Clark-Shaw Magnet School. At Clark-Shaw, he taught 7th and 8th grade Project Lead the Way, guiding students through hands-on learning in engineering, robotics, space exploration, and advanced technology. His passion for innovation and learning inspired countless students.

As an archery coach, Jonathan led Clark-Shaw’s team to remarkable success—including a 5th place finish at the State Championship, a 2nd place Regional finish, and the school’s first trip to Nationals. He also organized the school’s first archery tournament, hosting over 550 archers from 32 schools.

In addition to his work in schools, Jonathan served as Program Manager and Instructor at Goodwill Easterseals, where he provided GED preparation and literacy education. He also led the education and volunteer programs at Mobile Metro Jail, bringing hope and opportunity to those often overlooked.

Jonathan was a man of adventure—he loved surfing, skateboarding, and the outdoors. But above all, he lived for his children: Jonathan Cain Braswell, Aden Claire Braswell, Jake Prescott Braswell, and Avry Patricia Braswell. They were the center of his world and the source of his greatest joy.

He is survived by his father, Richard Earl Braswell; his children; and his siblings: Melinda Ann Haynes (Ray), Richard Clay Braswell (Karen), Stephen Duane Braswell (Shalla), and Timothy Lane Braswell. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, colleagues, and former students who will carry his memory forward.

Jonathan was a passionate educator, a devoted father, a fun-loving brother, and a true friend to many. He lived with purpose, loved with his whole heart, and brought joy even in the hardest moments. His legacy lives on—in the students he inspired, the family he cherished, and the countless lives forever changed by his presence.

“The influence of a good teacher can never be erased.”