John Braden

John Lyle Braden, 85, of Sikeston, Missouri, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on September 21, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was born on September 4, 1940, in Parma, Missouri, to Leonard and Demetra Green Braden.

An only child, Johnny, befriended everyone he met and never knew a stranger. He graduated from Parma High School in 1958. He met the love of his life, Shirley McMillen, and they were married on November 1st, 1959. He acquired four brothers and three sisters in this union. Together, John and Shirley raised two sons and built a life of love and laughter.

John trained for the U.S. National Guard but was never deployed. Over the years, he worked primarily as a divisional sales representative, though he also owned and operated his own donut shop for several years.

In his retirement, John became the go-to babysitter for his youngest grandchildren and could often be found socializing with his coffee shop friends. He loved telling bedtime stories to his oldest grandchildren about The Thing which became a joke that lasted throughout the years. He enjoyed game shows, sports, music, and playing cards with friends and family. An entertainer at heart and one of Elvis Presley's greatest fans, John was often singing, dancing, and telling stories to anyone he met. A long-time member of Shady Acres Church of Christ, John's childlike faith gave him a sense of joy that permeated everything he did.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Demetra Braden.

He is survived by his devoted wife and caretaker, Shirley; their children, Derek (Kathy) and David (Teresa); seven grandchildren, Ashley (Chris) Thilges, Michelle (Austin) Smith, Jenna (Colby) Pettit, Kelly Braden, Julie (Devin) Ridder, Emily (Trey) Gibson, and James (Natalie) Braden; and nine great-grandchildren. He was lovingly known as "Kracky" by his grands and great-grands, who will hold him forever in their hearts.

Visitation will be held at Shady Acres Church in Sikeston on Friday, September 26, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories. Arrangements are under the care of Ponder Funeral Home.

John will be remembered for his unwavering joy, deep love for his family, and the laughter he brought to every room. Through his last day, he never stopped smiling. He lived out the lyrics of one of his favorite songs, Red Red Robin: "live, love, laugh and be happy." Though we will miss his presence, we rejoice knowing he is at home with his Savior.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital.

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