David Brainard

David Lee Brainard, beloved father, grandfather, brother, teacher, and friend, passed into the presence of his Savior on June 13, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 71.
Born in Parsons, Kansas on May 29, 1954, David was the third child of Lee and Delberta Brainard. His life began with great joy, as his father proudly yelled across the pasture, "I got a boy!" when he was born. In 1956, the Brainard family moved to Oklahoma City, where David grew up on an acreage that became the backdrop for a childhood filled with imagination, sports, and homemade games. Friends often said he could have been the next Parker Brothers for the inventive games he created-"washers" being a favorite.
He graduated from Putnam City West High School in 1972, where he wore number 24 on the football team and constructed his own backyard golf course. Whether shooting hoops, playing yard football, or competing in his own invented tournaments, he brought passion and energy to everything he did.
David worked his way through college mowing lawns and earned a B.A. in English from the University of Central Oklahoma. He went on to dedicate his life to education, teaching English, literature, and creative writing at several high schools, beginning his career at Putnam City Original. There, he founded the beloved creative writing club "Think Ink." He coached softball, leading teams to state championships coaching both at Putnam City and Edmond. He finished his career at Putnam City West. His heart for ministry was evident throughout his life. He served faithfully in youth ministry at Gethsemane Church, where the annual Roman Nose camping trip became a cherished tradition. He was also involved in Young Life and Campus Crusade for Christ, always bringing humor, heart, and a childlike spirit to the young people he mentored.
He was a devoted father to Ariel and Johnathan, sharing his love of road trips, movies, and traditions. Weeklong garage sales taught lessons in work ethic, and Friday night movie rentals brought the family together-favorites like The Ghost and Mr. Chicken still bring a smile. He passed on his love of sports to Johnathan and a passion for musicals and theology to Ariel. A trip to Branson memorably included learning the Apostles' Creed together-a testament to the values he lived and passed on.
His tradition of New Year's Eve game night tournaments with his children later expanded to include nieces, nephews, and extended family-always full of laughter and fierce but friendly competition.
After retiring from teaching, David began a heartfelt ministry called "Letter of the Month," sending out over 100 newsletters to more than 160 recipients. His letters offered encouragement, reflection, and a touch of humor. He also led men's groups and Bible studies, continuing to impact lives through wisdom, humility, and faith.
He found immense joy in his role as "Granddad" to Finn (7) and Kennedy (5), delighting in videos of their homeschool adventures and celebrating their accomplishments.
He is survived by his daughter, Ariel (George) Braswell; his beloved grandchildren, Finn and Kennedy; his sisters, Connie (Andy) Dantes, Carol (Myron) Albrecht, and Dana (Kelly) Parker; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Delberta Brainard, and his beloved son, Johnathan Brainard.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jesus Film Project at: www.jesusfilm.org