Jon Barry Brazelton of Joplin, MO, passed from this life January 2nd, 2026.

Jon Barry Brazelton, of Joplin, Missouri, was born on December 14, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, to Elmer and Doris Brazelton, both of whom preceded him in death. He attended all his education including college in Akron before proudly serving his country.

Jon served in the Ohio National Guard from 1957 to 1959, including six months of active duty in the Army, he continued his military service in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1964. His love for God, family, and country was evident throughout his life.

In 1969, Jon met the love of his life, Peggy Castor, in Joplin, Missouri. They were married on February 24, 1970, and shared a devoted marriage that spanned more than five decades. They made their home in Joplin, where they raised their family and built a life rooted in faith and service. He formally worked for Roadway Express and Burlington Trucking before he retired from Park Hill Trucking Company formally Tri-State Company after working there for 37 years. He enjoyed 17 years of retirement, spending much of that time traveling with Peggy and his family, including several cruises where he found great joy simply sitting on the balcony, watching the ocean for hours on end with his coffee he loved so much.

Jon’s greatest desire was for his family to know Jesus. He faithfully raised his children in church and served in numerous roles, including Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Awana leader. He was a current member of Villa Heights Christian Church in Joplin, Missouri. His love for his family ran deep—he was the calm voice of reason, led by example, and was always present with wisdom and encouragement.

Beyond his family, Jon had a heart for serving others. He dedicated time to mentoring youth through the Lunch Buddies and Big Brothers programs, offering guidance, patience, and kindness to young lives in his community.

Jon found his greatest happiness when surrounded by family—playing games, sharing stories, and reminiscing about his time in the military, stories his grandchildren especially loved to hear.

Jon is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Brazelton, of Joplin, Missouri; his children, Cherie Hawkins and husband Tom of Monroe, Georgia, and Jon Brazelton II of Joplin, Missouri.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Amber Cupp and husband Andy of Monroe, Georgia; Dr. Jasmine Hawkins of Greenville, South Carolina; Jessica Evans and husband Chris of St. George, Utah; Jon Brazelton III and wife Grace of Joplin, Missouri; and Isabella Brazelton of Joplin, Missouri, Matthew Garrity, Cheyenne Devine & Hannah Fletchall.

His great-grandchildren include Mikynna, Leah, Kayden, Kolton, Kylie, and Rhett.

Jon is survived by his brother, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Don Brazelton and wife Pat, Summerville, S.C., along with many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his son, Scot Brazelton; his great-grandson, Xander Cupp; grandson, Isaac Garrity; his parents, Elmer and Doris Brazelton; his sister, Linda Kelly; and his nephew, Shaun.

Jon will be remembered for his unwavering faith, steadfast love, servant’s heart, and devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the example he set for generations to come.

A memorial will be held at Villa Heights Christian Church on at 11 a.m. on January 17th, 2650 E. 7th Street, Joplin, MO officiated by Minister Steve Bycroft.

Donations can be made to Villa Heights Christian Church.