Grover Boyd Braddock, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed peacefully on February 15, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 85. Born on March 28, 1940, in Rice, Texas, Grover’s life was a testament to faith, hard work, humility, and unwavering love for family.

Grover was born to Stephen Franklin and Letha Ethel Braddock, who instilled in him the values of integrity, perseverance, and compassion. He carried those virtues with him throughout his life and passed them on to all who knew him.

A proud graduate of Ennis High School, Grover later attended Farrier School, following a calling that reflected his deep love for horses and the Western way of life. An award-winning cowboy, he took great pride in his work as a farrier, serving countless neighbors and friends with skill and dedication. Over the years, he also drove propane trucks, delivered RVs, and worked as a surveyor—never afraid of hard work and always willing to lend a helping hand. To Grover, no job was too small if it meant helping someone in need.

For 60 years, Arlington, Texas was his home—a place where he built a life rooted in faith and community. A faithful member of St. John the Apostle United Methodist Church, Grover lived his beliefs daily. His relationship with the Lord shaped his character and guided his steps. He often shared one of his greatest life lessons: “Best thing I ever did was go to self-care barn,” a reflection of his belief in growth, humility, and tending to one’s spiritual and personal well-being.

Grover’s life was rich with joy and fellowship. He loved playing on his adult softball team, “The Spurs,” where his competitive spirit and camaraderie shone brightly. He found great pleasure in watching the Texas Rangers play, cheering faithfully through every season. He loved square dancing and treasured the special memories made traveling in the camper with his square dance group—adventures filled with laughter, music, and lifelong friendships.

Above all, Grover cherished his family. He was the beloved husband of Barbara Ann Braddock, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion and partnership. He was a proud and loving father to Kim (David) Murray and Deana Braddock. His grandchildren—Lindsey Forga, Craig (Hayley) Murray, and Caleb (Brianne) Murray—knew him as “Pappy,” a title he wore as one of his greatest honors. His great-grandchildren—Kash, Sailor, Saige Forga, Conrad, Hattie, and Saoirse Murray—were the light of his later years, each bringing him immeasurable pride and joy.

Grover was preceded in death by his parents and many of his beloved siblings: Louise, Ruth, Letha Mae, Johnie, Melba, Gene, Dorothy, Glyn, Rex, and Ginna. He is survived by his sister, Nita, who, along with many extended family members and dear friends, will continue to cherish his memory.

Known as a “Bonafide father and Pappy,” Grover’s greatest accomplishment was not found in awards or titles, but in the countless lives he touched. He always wanted to help people and offer assistance to anyone in need. Whether through his work, his church, his friendships, or his quiet acts of service, he reflected Christ’s love in action.

Grover’s life reminds us of Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” He walked humbly, loved deeply, worked faithfully, and leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and enduring faith.

Though our hearts grieve his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort knowing he now rests in the presence of his Savior. His boots may be set aside, his glove laid down, and the dance floor quiet without him—but his love will echo through generations.