John “Big John” Warren Braxton, Sr.

John Warren Braxton, Sr.
February 23, 1947 – November 26, 2025

SPRING HOPE – John Warren Braxton, Sr., 78, passed on from this life, leaving a legacy of integrity, faith and most importantly, love. John was born in Newport News, VA to the late David and Bennie Mabel Braxton. Big John was a graduate of Atlantic Christian College with a degree in physical education. He taught and coached in the Nash County School System for 30 years. John had a passion for sports, often heard telling the story of the year he spent playing baseball with the farm team of the Baltimore Orioles in Bluefield, West Virginia. He is better known for playing many years in the United States Slo-Pitch Softball Association (USSSA), participating in several World Series. Big John was a powerful switch hitter, and known as a “Slugger” for his numerous home runs. More importantly, he was known for his smile, his outgoing nature, and his warm loving personality. The warmth and grace felt while in his presence will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing such a wonderful soul.

John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Brenda Massey Braxton; his sons, John Warren Braxton, Jr. (Carol), Robbie Braxton (Renee) and Cameron Braxton; his six beautiful grandchildren, Jessica, Tyler, Amber, Eric, Demitri, and Haiven; his two nephews, Johnny and Danny; and his two nieces, Connie and Vickie.

Memorial service will be on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00AM at Rocky Cross Baptist Church, located at 13452 Burgess Rd., Middlesex, NC 27557 with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in his memory to help replace the 100-year-old tin roof on Rocky Cross Baptist Church.

Arrangements are entrusted to Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell, NC 27591. www.stricklandfuneral.com