James Rudolph Braggs

James Rudolph “Rudy” Braggs was born February 15, 1940, in Jacksonville, Alabama (Roll Tide) to Guy Edward Braggs and Donie Mae Braggs. He died Thursday, September 12, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 84 years. Rudy came by train to Oklahoma from Alabama in 1954 and soon after dropped out of high school to take care of his little brothers. He worked as a brick mason, but primarily was a welder through his working life with Smithco and then with Braden Steel Manufacturing. Rudy was married April 7, 1961, in Tulsa to Aretha Jean Hixson. His co-worker and rideshare buddy at Smithco, Pastor Jerry Hogue, invited Rudy to his Church of God of Prophecy in Oologah where they attended for many years. He later attended Trinity Holiness Assembly of God in Owasso. Rudy enjoyed a variety of pastimes, especially time spent fishing. He also enjoyed raising and watching homer pigeons, gardening, and loved his dogs. He dearly loved his brothers and enjoyed being with them often. He loved his parents and encouraged them to move next door where he could take care of them in their golden years. He longed for grandchildren and was blessed with two that he enjoyed spending time with. Nothing warmed his soul more than playing the role as O’Daddy to his grandkids. Rudy was a loyal friend to many and was generous to lend a hand at anytime to those in need. His playfulness and kind heart will be missed by many. Those he leaves behind who hold many cherished memories include: His wife of over63 years; Aretha Jean Braggs, of Collinsville, Oklahoma Son; James Darrin Braggs and wife Stephanie, of Oologah, Oklahoma Grandchildren; Keaton Jett Jagger Braggs and Finnley Rayne Braggs, Kinzer Lambert, and Jordan Lambert Brothers; Jerry Wayne Braggs and wife Barbara, of Catoosa, Oklahoma Howard Braggs, of Claremore, Oklahoma David Braggs, of Tellico Plains, Tennessee Verlon Braggs and wife Connie, of Claremore, Oklahoma Ivan Braggs, of Bixby, Oklahoma He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Donie Braggs, and two brothers, Paul Edward Braggs and Clarence Braggs. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Mowery Funeral Service in Owasso. Funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 20, 2024, at Trinity Holiness Assembly of God in Owasso with Pastor Weston Baker officiating. Serving as casket bearers will be Ryan Braggs, Errick Braggs, Aaron Braggs, Mitchell Braggs, Keaton Braggs, and Kinzer Lambert. Rudy’s final disposition will be held later in Jacksonville, Alabama. Arrangements and services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso. www.moweryfs.com

James Rudolph Braggs

February 15, 1940 - September 12, 2024