Carol S. Braden

Carol S. Braden, age 80, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, at her residence following two courageous battles with breast cancer.

She was the eldest child of Robert and Gladys Braden. Although she never married Carol led a rich, full life being a loving sister, aunt and friend. She graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School and then went on to be the first in our family to receive a college degree. She graduated from St. Francis College with a degree in medical technology. Carol lived in Indianapolis and worked at IU Medical Center.

After Carol’s parents were involved in a serious car accident – she moved back to help “care for them.” In doing so she was able to work on the family farms which she truly loved. She found great joy working alongside of Greg and her Dad.

“Caring for others” has been a theme throughout her life.

She helped care for nieces and nephews whenever asked or needed. As the children grew, Carol attended many activities and ball games. She was a constant supporter to them.

Carol helped care for both parents as they aged and helped them to live at home for as long as possible. She helped with canning, cleaning, grocery shopping, mowing and driving – whatever was needed. Carol was always “caring for others.”

She never thought of herself, she put others first. Her love of God, family and her Catholic faith made her a sturdy anchor for our family and she always held steady. When Carol hugged you – it was heartfelt and strong.

Her family will treasure all the many wonderful memories of Carol and are rejoicing for her in her new home. She was “the best of us” and God knows what a faithful, loving and tenderhearted person she was to everyone lucky enough to have known her.

She leaves behind four sisters and one brother; Nancy Jean Cornejo, Roxy Ann Harmon (Darrel), Gregory Robert Braden (Sherry), Rebecca Louise Brown (Michael), Beverly Kay Hoopingarner (Michael); 15 nieces & nephews; 20 great nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Ed Cornejo.

Carol was a lifelong parishioner of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home, with the Reciting of the Holy Rosary at 3:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, with Father Jacob Runyon presiding. Visitation will be held prior to the Mass from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Vincent De Paul Society.

Arrangements are entrusted to Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home.

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