Ronald Gene Branham

Ronald Gene Branham, 79, of Nevada, Missouri, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025 at the Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin, Missouri, surrounded in his final days by the family he adored - especially his grandkids, who were the light of his life.

    Ron was born somewhere between time zones and timelines on September 30, 1945, in Neosho, Missouri - or more accurately, on the side of the road in an ambulance, with a Camp Crowder soldier helping deliver him. Thanks to Daylight Saving Time, even the clock couldn’t quite make up its mind - so they settled on September 30. He was the proud son of Lester Henry and Marguerite Branham and grew up in Neosho, where his work ethic and curiosity took root early.

    A 1963 graduate of Neosho High School, Ron went on to study architecture at Oklahoma State University. During his junior year, with the Vietnam War escalating and knowing he would likely be drafted, he made the selfless decision to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving from 1968-1971. He served with distinction as a Specialist Five (SP5) - a rank equivalent to Sergeant, designated for technical and support expertise during that era.

    Ron was proudly recognized for his exemplary service in the U.S. Army, where he served as Senior Operations Specialist with the 11th Aviation Battalion (Combat) during the Vietnam War.He was commended for his relentless dedication, leadership, and determination - qualities that earned him the respect of his commanding officers and the lasting gratitude of his country. He received the following recognitions during this service: National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; Bronze Star Medal; Expert (Rifle M-14); Expert (Rifle M-16).

    After his military service, Ron returned to OSU and completed his architecture degree in 1973, bringing the same sense of focus and excellence to his studies that he had shown in service.

    That same year, on June 30, 1973, he married the love of his life, Carol Dean (Thogmartin) Branham. Their nearly 52-year marriage was a beautiful blend of faith, humor, creativity, and deep devotion to family. Ron was Carol’s steady presence - her rock, always encouraging her dreams and standing beside her in everything she pursued. Together, they created a life rich in love, meaning, and joyful memories.

    Ron’s career as an architect spanned decades, beginning with Sidney Morris & Associates in Chicago (1973-1977), followed by a long tenure at Adams & Associates in Nevada, Missouri (1977-2006).  In Chicago, he worked on large-scale mall projects that he was immensely proud of, but it was the spaces he shaped for his community and church that defined his legacy.

    A lifelong learner and craftsman, Ron began working around age 10 at his Uncle Don’s paint store and helping on Uncle Junior’s farm for most of his young life. Later in life, he poured his energy and vision into First Baptist Church of Nevada, serving as a deacon, Royal Ambassadors leader, and chairman of the building committee during the construction of the church’s current location. He volunteered his architectural expertise and added personal touches - including custom stained glass in the children’s wing.

    After retirement, Ron founded Branham Stained Glass, creating meaningful works of art for friends and family. His trademark stained glass crosses became beloved gifts and symbols of faith.

    Ron was a man of many passions: fishing, photography, restoring El Caminos, and mentoring youth - often silently but profoundly. He was self-taught in batiking, glass etching, and many other artistic endeavors. He loved deeply, laughed often, and was known for his moral compass, his humility, and his legendary memory.

    Ron is survived by his wife Carol; his children: Matthew Dale Branham (Michelle) of Nevada, Missouri; Nathan Dale Branham (Nicole) of Harrisonville, Missouri; and Sarah Beth Mwangi (Edwin) of Joplin, Missouri. He was the proud Pops of Alexandra Sullivan (Luke), Brayden Gast, Sophia Branham, Katherine Branham, Jordan Mwangi, Harper Branham, Sydney Mwangi, and Emma Branham. He is also survived by a host of extended family and cherished friends, all of whom were touched by his kindness, humor, and dependable presence. As so many who knew him would say, "To know him was to love him."

    He also leaves behind two sisters, Polly Gilbert of Neosho and Carolyn Barratt of Derby, Kansas; and a cousin who was like a brother, Larry Branham (Connie) of Neosho. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Richard Branham (Alisa), special cousin who was like a brother and namesake of his boys Dale Branham, his uncle E.F. Branham Jr. (Ula); and his parents-in-law Thomas Henry and Effie Thogmartin.

    A visitation will be held Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 5-7pm at Ferry Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, June 19, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Nevada, with a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. at New Salem Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri.

    In honor of Ron’s life and legacy, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors or Healthy Nevada Snackpacks for Kids.

    The family would like to thank Dr. Clint Dunkle, who became more than a physician - he became family through his compassionate care, and to the many caregivers at Westgate, Medical Lodge, and Solace House, who walked alongside Ron in his final years with kindness, grace, and dignity.

    Even when words were no longer accessible to him, Ron’s spirit remained unmistakable. Known for breaking into dramatic opera-style singing, he continued to light up the room with humor and joy, reminding everyone that he was still very much Ron - full of life, laughter, and love until the very end.

Psalms 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

 You may view obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com