Gene C. Braden, age 76, and a resident of Avon, passed peacefully in his sleep Saturday morning, August 1, 2026.

He was born May 28, 1950, in Cleveland to the late Roy and Lillian Braden (nee Dzurik). After graduating from Bowling Green State University in 1972 with his Bachelor's, he became a band director for Tippecanoe High School, where he worked for 4 years before going to the University of Dayton for a Master's in Business Administration. he then worked for 21 years at Trotwood-Madison City School as director for the band, choir, show choir, and many other programs in the arts. In addition, he played numerous gigs with jazz bands as a saxophonist and pianist, including with Maynard Ferguson.

On April 7, 2011, he married Carolyn Braden nee Sell, and they were happily married for 15 years. He was a loyal member of Bay United Methodist Church for many years and an active part of their community.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Alexia Fredrick.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; children, Dixie(Patrick A.) Murphy, and Patrick F. (Amanda) Fredrick; grandchildren Shelby (Tony) Mease, Jack Murphy, Jacob, Jett, and Ariana Fredrick; sister Bonnie (Joe) Kunzelman; nephews Brad(Tara) and Brian (Jill) Kunzelman; and countless family members, friends, and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Bay United Methodist Church, 29931 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Andras Crematory & Funeral Home, Lorain.