Obituaries

Elizabeth Jean Braden

Elizabeth Jean Braden, age 82, of Weogufka, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at Sylacauga Health & Rehab Services surrounded by her loving family.

Jean was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, friend, and faithful servant of the Lord. Throughout her life, she was known for her quick wit, protective nature, and unwavering love for those she held dear. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to her family and friends, and she leaves behind countless cherished memories.

For many years, Jean was employed by Russell Mills, where she dedicated herself to her work with diligence and pride. Outside of work, she found joy in tending her flower garden, listening to legend Elvis Presley, and spending time with and cooking for those she loved. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she served faithfully and diligently at Weogufka Second Baptist Church, where she was a treasured member of her church family.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Kennie Morris Robinson; and her brothers, Howard Robinson, Oscar Robinson, and Bert Robinson.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Thomas Harold “Sonny” Braden; her son, Jeffrey Alan “Fish” Blair; her sister, Rilla Blalock; and her brother, Ronnie (Sandra) Robinson. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to her family, Jean was blessed with cherished and chosen daughters, Shannon (Joey) Scott and Brooke (Brandon) Baird. She was a proud and loving Mammy to Zeb (Ragan), Zander (Tanner), and Zaden Baird, and granddaughter Bailee Baird, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Jean’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, and love. She devoted herself to caring for others, standing fiercely beside those she loved, and living out her Christian faith through service and compassion. While her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort in knowing she has entered the presence of her Savior.

Visitation will be Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Radney-Smith Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Radney-Smith Chapel, with Bro. Brandon Baird officiating. Following the service, Jean will be laid to rest at Talladega Springs Cemetery, with Bro. Steve Dyess officiating, where she will be reunited with loved ones who have gone before her.

Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Braden, Bobby Blalock, Joey Moore, Josh Culver, Joey Scott, and Zaden Baird. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of Weogufka Second Baptist Church; Melvin Palmer, Paul Dunseith, Johnny Turney and long-time friend Ronnie McGrady.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May her legacy of faith, devotion, and love continue to inspire generations to come.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Sylacauga Health & Rehab Services and Coosa Valley Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and support shown during her final days, as well as Brenda Campbell. Your dedication, comfort, and loving service brought peace to both Jean and her family, and your kindness will always be remembered with sincere appreciation.

Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.

Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga will direct the services.

 

Rita Dunham

 

A funeral service for Mrs. Rita Dunham was held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home with Rev. Russell DeLee officiating. Burial followed in Smyrna Cemetery.

Mrs. Rita Dunham, lovingly known as Rita, was a generous, kind, and thoughtful woman whose life touched many hearts, and she passed away on May 28, 2026, in Kellyton, at the age of 87.
Born on May 22, 1939, in Aplaya Bauan Batangas, Phillipines, to Calixto Husania Bacong and Emeteria Capampangan Bacong, Rita carried with her a spirit of grace and quiet strength from the very beginning. She lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and perseverance, and she remained a shining example of what it means to serve others with humility and love. Her journey from her early days to her final years reflected a woman who understood the value of hard work, family, and steadfast belief.
Rita moved to the United States with her husband in 1989, and together they shared 30 years of marriage filled with commitment, companionship, and enduring love. Through the years, she built a life that was rooted in faith and strengthened by the bonds she formed with those around her. She was a Christian and an active member of Kellyton Baptist Church, where her presence and spirit were a blessing to her church family. Her life was a testimony to the power of faith lived out in everyday acts of kindness and dedication.
One of Rita’s great gifts was her talent as a skilled seamstress. She loved to make clothes and wedding gowns, and through her hands she created beauty that others could wear and cherish. Her work was more than a skill, because it was an expression of care, patience, and artistry. She understood that something made with love could become part of someone’s most meaningful memories, and she gave that gift freely through her craft. Her ability to sew was matched by the warmth of her heart, and those who knew her could see that she stitched not only fabric, but also comfort and joy into the lives of others.
Rita will be remembered for the gentle way she moved through life and for the strength she carried with quiet dignity. She was the kind of person who made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. Her generosity was not loud, but it was deeply felt. Her kindness was not occasional, but steady. Her thoughtfulness was not reserved for special moments, but woven into the way she lived each day. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
She is survived by her niece, Fortune Mashburn, and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Gerald Cleveland Dunham, whom she loved dearly. Though her earthly journey has ended, the impact of her life remains strong, and the beauty of her example will continue to speak for her.
Rita’s life is a reminder that a meaningful life is not measured by fame or recognition, but by faith, love, service, and the lasting kindness we give to others. She lived with purpose, she loved deeply, and she left this world better than she found it. Her story encourages us all to live with open hands, faithful hearts, and the courage to make beauty wherever we are.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.

Radney Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Rita Bacong Dunham.