Bernard Leo Braddock

It is with heavy hearts and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad, Bernard “Bernie” Leo Braddock, who left us on January 15, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on November 10, 1946, in Tulia, Texas, Bernie grew up on the family farm just down the road from the famous Elmer’s Liquor Store in Nazareth. He graduated from Nazareth High School and spent the majority of his life in the trucking industry. Behind the wheel of his cherished rose-colored Peterbilt #94, Bernie traveled highways and byways, logging over a million miles on that ol’ girl. A true road warrior, he knew every rest stop, diner, mile marker, and truck stop across the country. But no matter how far he roamed, there was no place quite like home. For Bernie, trucking wasn’t just a job—it was a way of life, a chance to see the world one mile at a time. And, of course, he loved telling stories about the colorful “characters” he met along the way—some of which may have been slightly embellished for dramatic effect! His career even took him, Bionca, and Dirinda to Disney World, with a few drops and pickups along the way.

When he wasn’t driving, dispatching, or repairing a truck, Bernie could often be found team roping or steer-tripping on his beloved Billy Bad Boy. If you knew Bernie, you knew that when he wasn’t working on something, behind the wheel or on horseback, he was likely catching up on much-needed sleep—unless the phone rang. And when it did, you could always count on hearing a loud “Braddock!” as he jumped into action.

Bernie is survived by his daughters: Bionca Tomlinson and husband Chase; Dirinda Snider and husband Timmy; his grandsons Tyler Sharp and wife Marisa, Randon Sharp and wife Baileigh, Tanner Snider, and Kross Tomlinson; and his great-grandchildren Brylnee and Curtis Sharp, all of whom adored their “Pop Bernie”. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Jo Braddock; brother Don Braddock, sister Genevieve Ward and husband Bill, many nieces and a lone nephew Gary (who had to put up with all of us girls), his devoted caretaker Raymond, and a close circle of friends he considered family over the years. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Bernie was predeceased by his parents, Rudolph and Margaret Braddock, and his brother, Ronnie Braddock.

A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held on January 25, 2025, from 3 to 5 pm at Schooler Funeral Home’s Brentwood Chapel, 4100 S Georgia, Amarillo, TX. There, we will gather to share memories, laughter, and perhaps a few tall tales—just as he would have wanted.

Though Bernie may no longer be behind the wheel, his spirit will continue to guide us, and his humor will live on in the stories we will always cherish. In our Dad’s words…….Toot-a-loo.