Eddie Roy Braswell, age 78, of College Station, passed away January 17, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer. After his initial diagnosis, through prayer and the skills of the staff at M D Anderson and College Station Cancer Center, he had an astounding recovery that allowed friends and family to enjoy more wonderful time with Eddie.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 20, 2014, at Christ United Methodist Church.
Eddie was born October 12, 1935, to George and Oleta Vosburg Braswell now deceased, in Bronte, Coke County Texas, the oldest of two sons. Eddie is survived by three children, Ginger and husband Matt Williams of The Woodlands, Van Braswell and wife Elissa of Crowley and Gentry Braswell of Mesa Arizona.
He is survived by seven grandchildren, 1st Lt. Hunter Williams of Ft. Drum, N.Y., Dillon Williams of Houston, Evan Braswell of Burleson, Andra and husband Brandon Herrington of Burleson, Jesse Braswell of Greenville, Spencer Braswell and Jaidon Braswell. Eddie is also survived by his brother ,Dennie Ray Braswell and wife Sharon of Bronte, Texas and a host of nieces and nephews who were very special to him throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Carolyn Ruth Braswell, as well as a son, Sterling Braswell.
Eddie grew up and spent his youth in Bronte, Texas. He loved to explore the creeks and hills of this beloved area especially with his brother, Dennie. He attended Bronte schools and graduated from Bronte High School in 1954. He attended San Angelo College and received an Associates Arts degree in 1956. He returned to Coke County and met Carolyn Childress at an American Legion dance. They would date and marry in June of 1957, adding a partner to his life’s journey.
After working in Maryneal, a short time, he joined the USDA ASCS in 1957. This was the start of a 40-year career in service to American farmers and the source of many lifelong friendships. He trained in Robert Lee and Ballinger, and then spent 4 years in Sterling City. He transferred to Colorado City, Texas for seven years, and then two years in Alpine as District Director before moving to Sweetwater in 1972. Everywhere Eddie and his family went, they became a part of the community and their church. Making new friends and visiting old ones enriched their lives.
In 1978, Eddie and Carolyn moved to College Station and embraced their new area with the usual vigor and energy. He became an avid fisherman on the lakes around College Station and continued to hunt in central and west Texas. He retired from the USDA after 40 years, in November 1996 as Chief of Price Support. In retirement he expanded his many interests and was as active as ever. He was an avid knife maker as well enjoying many activities including hunting, fishing, 42, and music.
He continued his involvement with the Boy Scouts, supporting the youth of Troop 802. Eddie and Carolyn became members of A&M United Methodist Church when they moved to College Station. In 1995, they were part of the mission team that started Christ United Methodist Church in College Station. Eddie has been an important part of the face and spirit of the church through his ministry as an usher and greeter, as well as long time support of youth ministries. Loved by children and adults, he brought many to the knowledge of Christ through his fellowship.
The family would like to thank everyone for their support and prayers, especially Compassionate Care Hospice, Christ United Methodist Church and Terri Hunt. Terri has been a special friend and caregiver for Eddie during the past year.
Memorials to Eddie may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, 4201 Hwy 6 S, College Station, TX 77845 or to the Methodist Children’s Home, 1111 Herring Ave, Waco, TX 76708. Eddie will be inurned in the Columbarium at Christ United Methodist Church.