Harold Ray Branstetter

Harold Ray Branstetter, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, minister, and lifelong funeral director to families in their times of deepest need, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by love and the legacy of a life lived with purpose.

Born on December 16, 1942, in Hill, Oklahoma, Harold was the son of Leo and Dovie (Walker) Branstetter. From an early age, he was drawn to a life of service. While still a student at Poteau High School, he began working at Evans Miller Funeral Home beginning a calling that would shape his entire life.

Harold earned his Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science from Central State College and went on to dedicate more than five decades to comforting families across Oklahoma City through funeral service. His steady presence, quiet strength, and sincere compassion brought peace to countless people navigating loss. He believed deeply in the healing power of empathy, and his care for others never wavered.

Later in life, Harold followed his heart to seminary and became a Lay Minister at Capitol Hill United Methodist Church. His ministry became a natural extension of his lifelong desire to walk alongside others in their most vulnerable moments, always with humility and grace.

To know Harold was to be seen, heard, and comforted. He brought warmth into a room without needing to speak a word. He will be remembered not only for his years of dedicated service, but for his kindness, gentleness, and unwavering spirit.

Harold is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his son Jeff and Jeff’s children Tyler, Owen, and Henley; his stepson Bobby and wife Angela; his stepdaughter Jalynn and husband Roland, and their children Carly and Jason; his son Terry Branstetter and wife Teresa, and their children Dylan and Brittany; and his daughter Rhonda Seiter and husband Gene, and their children Mark and Mitchell.

He also leaves behind many other cherished family members, friends, and colleagues each of whom carries a part of his legacy in their hearts.Harold was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers, and his beloved daughter Tami, with whom he is now joyfully reunited.

A celebration of Harold’s life and service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 22, in the chapel of Advantage Funeral Service the very place that once bore his name and where he gave so much of himself to others. Visitation and a time of fellowship will be held from Noon to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

Though Harold’s passing leaves a profound emptiness, his life reminds us that true greatness lies in compassion, in quiet faith, and in the simple act of showing up for others. His light lives on in every life he touched.