Samuel Maston Braden

Samuel Matson Braden, age 86, a resident of Oliver Springs, slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God on Friday, July 27, at his home.

Mr. Braden was born, April 13, 1926, on the Braden family farm, in Oliver Springs to the late R.H. Braden and Eliza M. Lockett Braden. He was a lifelong resident of Anderson County.

While in high school, Mr. Braden entered into the United States Navy and served his country during the Second World War on the U.S.S. Harlan R. Dickson Destroyer. While serving, he received several medals, citations, ribbons, and accommodations.

Following his military discharge, he returned back to the family farm in Oliver Springs, and he went back to Oliver Springs High School.

He was a well known farmer, cattleman, and businessman in Anderson County. Area cattle farmers would often call Mr. Braden concerned about a sick cow, and after hearing the symptoms, he could usually diagnose the problem and offer a remedy by phone. He was quick to lend a helping hand, and he was called upon many a night to go help a neighbor with their cattle because of his knowledge and expertise.

His work ethic was rarely equaled and never bested, and with a sunburned face, he was often found in the hay fields preparing for the cold winter to come. The cold or the heat did not stop Mr. Braden, he knew work had to be done, and he was a man who could do almost anything he decided to do. His farming friends included Kenneth Jett, Fred Tate, David Chamblee, and Donnie and Ronnie Phillips.

Sam was a great story teller with a witty sense of humor. He enjoyed listening to country music and visiting with family and friends.

He was a member of the Batley Baptist Church, and he previously spent many years as a member of the First Baptist Church in Oliver Springs.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Virginia Katherine Braden; by brothers, O.C. Braden, William “Bill” Braden, and James R. “Jay” Braden; and by sisters, Lorene Upchurch, Eula Shears, and Viola Bartley.

A wonderful husband and father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will by sadly missed and joyfully remembered by a son, Patrick Braden and wife, Libby, of Oliver Springs; by a granddaughter, Courtney Brandon and husband, Jay, of Knoxville; by a grandson, Cody Ashley and wife, Melody, of Clinton; by a great-granddaughter Bayleigh Ashley; by a great-grandson, Grayson Brandon; and by several nieces, nephews, extended family members and many special friends including double first cousins, Wanda Brown and Joe Lockett.

The family received friends Sunday, July 29, at Sharp Funeral Home. The funeral followed at 8 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Tony Rutherford officiating.

Burial and graveside services will be held Monday, July 30, at 11 a.m. at Butler Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions be made to the Future Farmers of America or your local humane society.

A special appreciation is extended to a nephew, Jim Braden, who has always been there and caregivers, Nadene Anderson and Bertha Smith.

Sharp Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

An online guest book is available at www.sharpfh.com.