Stephen W. Braden, PhD, age 65, of Springfield, passed away Sunday morning, June 4, 2017 in Manor Care, Springfield. He was born at Bruner, Missouri, October 3, 1951 to Roger and Betty (Abbott) Braden. After graduating from Sparta High School in 1969, Steve began building fence, later was employed with the Missouri Department of Conservation and Kraft Foods. In his mid 30’s, Steve decided to resume his education and discovered his mission in life. In 1991 Steve received his Bachelor of Science Degree from MSU, followed by his Masters of Arts degree in 1993 and in 2000 Steve achieved the title of Doctor of Philosophy from Louisiana State University. He spent 22 years as a professor and administrator at Georgia State University and Kennesaw State University, both institutions are in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Although born with severely limited eye sight, Steve lived a full, rich and productive life. Stephen is survived by his daughter Bridget Close and husband Rob; his brother J.R. Braden and wife Betty; nieces Kristi Schroeder and husband Randy, Katie Payne and Brian Connery and nephew Kyle Braden and wife Jody. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family expresses special thanks to med bridge staff at Manor Care and Integrity Hospice. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to7:00 P.M., Wednesday, June 7, 2017 followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 7 P.M. in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com
(417) 581-7811
PO Box 796, 1700 South 15th Ave, Ozark, MO 65721
barnesfamilyfunerals@gmail.com
No Condolences-
-
Jaye Atkinson says
June 6, 2017 at 10:24 amI am so sorry to hear about Steve’s passing. He was one of my favorite colleagues at Georgia State University, always willing to listen, commiserate, and joke about the challenges of life. Steve’s laugh was contagious, and I loved hearing it! My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Jim A. Kuypers says
June 6, 2017 at 5:44 pmThis is a moment words simply fail. I am so sorry.
I’ve known Steve since graduate school. We studied together, worked together, and played together. Throughout the years I have come to so appreciate what I always called Steve’s “warped” sense of humor. That was our joke and we laughed. His laughter and insight into the human condition always touched me. I will miss that. I will miss our games of chess. I will miss him.
May God bless you his family and friends.
Jim Kuypers