It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved John Junior Brayfield, who lived a remarkable life and peacefully joined his eternal rest on May 27, 2023. At the age of 91, John left behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and cherished memories that will forever be treasured by his family and friends.

Born on May 16th, 1932, in Turners Station, Missouri, John was the son of John and Carrie Brayfield. From a young age, it was evident that he possessed a spirit of determination, curiosity, and kindness that would shape his journey throughout life.

At the age of 20, John enlisted into the United States Air Force and served his country for 10 years. While supporting our great country, he also served as an early morning country DJ for the Armed Forces Radio Network. After his career in the Air Force, John then spent 31 years as a public bus driver for the city of Springfield and was recognized as the first "Bus Driver of the Year" in 1985. He also served as a deacon at the former Temple Baptist church in Springfield, MO.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was a man of many passions and interests. He had a love for music that knew no bounds, and he delighted in playing his favorite instruments whenever he had the chance. In the 60s and 70s, John sang and played guitar, bass, and keyboard with several groups in the Springfield area. As he got older, John loved to go and play at nursing homes and brought joy to those fortunate enough to experience it.

Family was at the core of John's being. As a loving father, he provided unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement to his children, Richard Brayfield (Lois), Donna Thomas, and Sharon Peterson (Bill). He relished their achievements and stood by them during life's challenges. John was a doting grandfather, finding immense joy in the laughter and innocent wonder of his grandchildren, Renee, Charity, Carrie (Rylan), Kyle (Kyndi), Katie, Mary, Emily, Sarah (Chuck), Shaunate and great-grandchildren Brianna, Hunter, and Aleena.

John Junior Brayfield is preceded by parents John Washington Brayfield and Carrie Emeline Brayfield, siblings Quentin, Genevieve, Bill and Betty Lou, Son in-law Scott Thomas and Daughter in-law Marti Brayfield. He leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories, lessons, and love that will forever shape the lives of those he leaves behind.

A celebration of John's life will be held on June 9th, 2023, at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens in Springfield, MO. It will serve as an opportunity for all those whose lives he touched to gather, share stories, and honor the legacy of a truly remarkable man. Open viewing will begin at 10am with the service following at 11am. John will be laid to rest at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Cardinal Glennon Childrens Hospital in memory of John Junior Brayfield, a lifelong Cardinals Baseball fan. GO CARDS!!!