Howard Windsel Brazelton

Howard Windsel “Braz” Brazelton passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in Gladstone, Missouri. He was born on March 30, 1923 in Converse, Missouri to the late Floyd Martin Brazelton and Carrie Velva Mellon Brazelton.

Braz was the beloved husband of the late Athene C. Brazelton for 69 years. He was the loving father of Debbie Albin (Art). Braz was the proud grandfather of Kristin Mayo (Brian) and the late Brett Albin (Danielle); great grandfather of Lily and Noah Albin. He was the last surviving of his ten siblings, Agnes Hoobery (Joe), Della Miller (Ray), Hazel King, Hershel Brazelton (Catherine), Herbert Brazelton (Mary), Mary Gibson (Wayne), Harold Brazelton (Alice), Homer Brazelton (Louise), Hollis Brazelton (Betty), and Carolyn Titus (Loren). He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Braz was raised on a farm near Lathrop, Missouri, and attended William Jewell College after high school graduation. He played football and basketball at Jewell while working toward a degree in education. Braz served in the Marine Corp from 1943-1945, at which time he returned to Jewell and graduated in 1947. Following graduation, he began his career at Platte City High School where he served as teacher, coach, and principal over the course of ten years. It was during this time that he earned his Master’s in Education from the University of Missouri. In Platte City, he made lifelong friends and memories that he loved to share. In the fall of 1957, he began his 28 year tenure with the North Kansas City School District. Braz served the district in two major roles, one being principal of Eastgate Junior High School. He enjoyed working with both the students and teachers and was often seen in the halls or cafeteria engaging with students. After 11 years at Eastgate, he went to the administration office and served as the Director of Classified Personnel, a job that he enjoyed until retirement in 1985. Again, many friends were made along with memories that he shared well into retirement. Braz was a member of Hillside Christian Church for 68 years where he held several leadership positions but was dedicated to serving wherever there was a need.

Braz loved meeting people and valued his friendships. His family meant the world to him. Once he retired, he was frequently seen at the golf course and played his final round at age 92. He and Athene enjoyed traveling to a variety of places together and often with friends. Living to age 103 was the surprise of his life but he was grateful for his long life and the opportunities it provided him.

We want to thank the Linden Woods Village staff for the love he was shown during his ten years of residency there. And to the Luminos Hospice team, you gave him the best of care for a year and a half. We are so grateful to all of you.