ROBERT BRAZELL

Robert Duane Brazell passed away on June 17, 2024 peacefully in his sleep with his family at his side.

Born to Rev. Leslie Brazell and Bonnie Johnson Brazell in Whitmire, S.C. on November 3, 1941, he attended Whitmire High School where he lettered in Football and Basketball for four years. He was voted most valuable basketball player in 1960. After High School, he joined the United States Air Force where he had postings in Pakistan, the Philippines, and Vietnam. He was extremely proud of all his medals, but especially the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with 8 Oak Leaf Clusters - which meant he had over 250 missions over Vietnam. He flew C-123, C-130B, C-135, C-141A, C-5A. Robert Duane was stationed at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, California where he was an Instructor Loadmaster for 15 years. He served as First Sergent of the 75th MAS for his last assignment and received numerous rewards for his squadron.

In 1981, he purchased Gentleman Jim’s Cocktail Lounge where he had some of the most enjoyable times of his life. He was a devoted golfer and served 18 years on the Vallejo Golf Club Board of Directors. Although the military brought Robert Duane to California, which is where he raised his beloved family, South Carolina was always his home. In 2011, he moved back to Whitmire, S.C. and purchased Bargain Tires of Laurens. He was affectionately known as the Used Tire Czar of South Carolina. Bob’s deep love of golf was the Cornerstone of his life. A faithful member of multiple golf clubs throughout his life, he volunteered for numerous foundations.

Bob was preceded in death by his Father Rev. Leslie Brazell, mother Bonnie Johnson Brazell, sister Joan Brazell Quesenbury, and most recently his cherished son Robert Bradley Brazell. Bob is survived by his beloved granddaughters Sarah Brazell and Hannah Brazell Carroll.

A memorial service in celebration of Bob’s life is to be held Friday June 21st from 11:00am to 1:00pm, at Lewis Funeral Home at 1247 Duncan Bypass, Union, SC 29379.

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