Robert Stephen Braine (1941–2025)

He was 84 years old.

Born April 15, 1941, Bob lived a life dedicated to service, both to his family and community. His passion for education and athletics led him to a long and impactful career at West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC). As an Assistant Football Coach and Head Track Coach, Robert mentored countless student-athletes, some of whom went on to compete at National Events. His commitment to his students extended beyond sports; he was instrumental in starting the Adult Fitness Program at WVWC, a program that is still active today and continues to impact the lives of many. Bob was also credited with being Buckhannon’s first City Horticulturist, a role through which he contributed to the beauty and vitality of his community. His work in horticulture was just one of the many ways he gave back to the area he loved. Additionally, Bob played a key role in mission work during his time at WVWC, taking several students to Guatemala on life-changing mission trips. These trips helped to improve local living conditions by digging water wells, providing medical care, and bringing back some for surgical needs. His selflessness and desire to help others left a lasting impact on both the community in Guatemala and his students.

Above all, Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Elizabeth Braine, of Buckhannon, West Virginia; daughters, Jennifer and Chris Anderson of Aguadilla, PR, Tracy and Kenny Sayre of Scott Depot, West Virginia, and Tricia Lantz of Buckhannon, West Virginia.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Zack Lantz of Buckhannon, West Virginia, Robert Turner Anderson of New Orleans, Louisiana, Tucker Sayre of Teays Valley, West Virginia, Abby and Patrick Popish of Hedgesville, West Virginia, Allyn and Joel Bellerby of Las Vegas, Nevada, Camden and Robson Byrn of Carlisle, England, Jayme Lantz of Ireland, West Virginia, and Kendal and Clay Whitney of Scott Depot, West Virginia.

Robert was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Frankie Jo Bellerby and Finley Bellerby of Las Vegas, Nevada.

In addition to his immediate family, Bob is survived by his brother, Dave Braine, and wife, Carol, of Blacksburg, Virginia; and his sister, Becky Elliot, and husband, George, of Grove City, Pennsylvania.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey Braine and Lucille Alderman Braine.

Bob’s life will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his passion for education and service, and his deep commitment to making the world a better place. His contributions to his community, his students, and the world will continue to resonate for generations to come.