Braxton James Gilkey

Braxton James Gilkey Sr. was a man of unwavering dedication-to his family, his country, his faith, and his community. Born on September 22, 1932, in the quiet town of Shady Point, Oklahoma, he was raised on the reservation, where he learned the values of hard work, resilience, and self-sufficiency. These early lessons would shape the course of his life, instilling in him a relentless work ethic and a deep sense of duty. At a young age, Braxton answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army. Over the next 22 years, he bravely fought in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, earning a collection of prestigious military honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, among others. His time in the military was marked by courage and sacrifice, but even after retiring from active duty, his commitment to service never wavered. Braxton continued his work in the community, serving as a drug and alcohol counselor and a security officer. His passion for helping others, particularly his fellow veterans, led him to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), where he rose through the ranks to become the Commander of VFW Post 9191 and later the Texas VFW All-State Commander. His leadership and compassion left a lasting impact on those he served, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers. Though duty and service defined much of his life, Braxton never strayed too far from his spiritual foundation. Raised in the church, he rededicated his life to the Lord in 1986. That same year, he married the love of his life, Sharron Lewis, under the leadership of Superintendent Major Clayton Jr. In 1998, he was ordained an elder in the Church of God in Christ. The Lord's plan led Braxton and his family across the world, where he was appointed Pastor of Conn Chapel COGIC "New Jerusalem" in Schweinfurt, Germany. Under the leadership of Bishop Carls L. Moody and the stewardship of Bishop Paul L. Watson, he faithfully served for six years, earning the affectionate title of "Pop Gilkey" throughout the Germany Jurisdiction. His ministry continued with a second tour in Japan before returning to Fort Hood, Texas, in 2014. There, he became a devoted member and Senior Elder at House of Worship Killeen, TX Inc. under Superintendent Andrew B. Long Sr. Braxton was known for very many things. He loved to dawn a suit and did not go anywhere without a hat. He was a skilled gardener; loved to fish and ruled the domino table. He even embraced technology at 92 earning him the title Mr. Gadget. For 39 years, Braxton and Sharron built a life rooted in love, faith, and family. Together, they have a blended family of eight children, each carrying a part of his legacy of strength and devotion. His wife–-Sharron Gilkey; his children-Braxton J. Gilkey Jr. Dayton, OH, Keith Gilkey (Melinda) Kingsland, GA, Alphonzo Gilkey (Andrea) Copperas Cove, TX, Kevin Bell (Monica) Dallas, TX, Timothy Gilkey (Yvonne) Copperas Cove, TX, Braxton Jacques Gilkey (Deonna) Hutto, TX, Ericka Grim (Molonzo) St. Louis, MO, and Gaylene Gilkey, Killeen, TX-were his pride and joy. His family extended far beyond his immediate household, encompassing 20 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was also a cherished brother to Icey Mbau (Henry), JoAnn Tisworth (Joshua) Tulsa, OK, Bessie Amamoo, Bloomfield, CT, Patricia Smith, Las Vegas, NV, and Carl Roberts Farris, TX, as well as a beloved godfather to Dominique Williams, Markus Long, Andrew Long Jr., and Rhaquia Perkins. Braxton was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Mae Roberts, his father, Brody Gilkey, and his brothers Adean Gilkey, David Roberts Jr., LeRoy Roberts, and Lawrence Roberts. His legacy remains alive in the countless lives he touched. Braxton James Gilkey Sr. was more than a soldier, a leader, or a minister-he was a pillar of strength, a man of honor, and a beacon of love and faith. His story is one of sacrifice and service, of devotion and determination. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Visitation: April 8; 2025; 5-7 pm Heritage Funeral Home 425 E Central Texas Expressway Heights, Texas 7658
Funeral Service: April 9, 2025 @11.00 am First Church of God in Christ 5201 Westcliff Road Killeen,Texas 76543