Thomas Edward Braman, 38, of Refugio, Texas, passed away on November 26, 2025. Thomas was born on December 19, 1986, to Mary Gayle and D. H. Braman Jr. Raised on the family ranch, he grew up learning to hunt, run dogs, and work cattle. He lived his life as big and bold as the South Texas brushland he cherished.
A proud professional rodeo cowboy and longtime member of the PRCA, Thomas traveled wherever the open road led. When he wasn’t on the rodeo circuit, he could be found on his ranch chasing dogs and hunting hogs. Thomas also had a deep love for fishing. Whether casting lines in the blue waters of the Caribbean or off the Pacific coast of Kona, Hawaii, he found joy and freedom on the water aboard his boat, the Siesta.
While he loved fishing, hunting and rodeoing, nothing compared to the love he held for his two children, Isabella Grace Braman and Braylen Hawes Braman. They were the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He was incredibly proud of them, and he cherished getting to teach them all about the things that were special to him.
Thomas was big-hearted, genuine, and fiercely loyal. He is and was the best of us because he was always authentically himself. He had an extraordinary ability to form lifelong friendships wherever he went, touching countless lives with his kindness, humor, and generosity. His presence could fill a room, and his absence leaves a profound void.
Thomas is survived by his beloved children, Bella and Braylen; his brothers, Dan Braman III (Stephanie) and Joe Braman of Refugio, Texas; his nephew, Daniel Braman IV (Savannah) of Refugio, Texas; nieces, Madeline Braman and Carlisle Braman; and great-niece Scarlett Braman.
Visitation will be held from 4:00–7:00 PM on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the Braman Residence on the Mellon Ranch.
A private Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 AM on Friday, December 5, 2025, with burial to follow at the Braman Family Cemetery on the Mellon Ranch.
Pallbearers are Nick Arredondo, Sam Choy, Lee Lewis, Richard Lullo, Pat Martignoni, Kevin Poteet, David Villarreal, and Rube Woolsey.
Honorary pallbearers are Torin Bales, Chuck Doebbler, Bob Gisler, Brock Hansen, Bret Hawes, Dr. John McNeil, Bubba Munsch, Bland Proctor, and Justin Pruitt.
