Longtime Spruce Pine Resident Glenn Robert Braswell Dies at 91

Braswell, a Navy veteran and carpenter, was known for his love of family, friends, and the outdoors.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Glenn Robert Braswell, a 91-year-old resident of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, passed away on February 12, 2026, at the Memorial Campus of Mission Hospitals in Asheville. Braswell was a member of Big Crabtree Baptist Church and the Altapass Church of God, and he proudly served in the U.S. Navy for eight years before retiring as a carpenter and tile setter.

Why it matters

Braswell's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit community of Spruce Pine, where he was known for his unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and the great outdoors. His life exemplified the values of service, hard work, and cherishing loved ones that have long defined the region.

The details

Braswell was preceded in death by his daughter, Glenda Wilson, and his brothers, Frank, Donald, and Leonard Braswell. He is survived by his daughters Sherry Barrier, Samantha 'Sam' Riddle, and Sara 'Nikki' Lowery, as well as his sister Doris Ann Dover, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his longtime partner Pat Mann, and other extended family and friends.

  • Braswell passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • His funeral service will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Altapass Church of God.

The players

Glenn Robert Braswell

A 91-year-old resident of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, who was a member of Big Crabtree Baptist Church and the Altapass Church of God, and proudly served in the U.S. Navy for eight years before retiring as a carpenter and tile setter.

Talmage and Zora Lee Gouge Braswell

Braswell's late parents.

Glenda Wilson

Braswell's late daughter.

Frank, Donald, and Leonard Braswell

Braswell's late brothers.

Sherry Barrier, Samantha 'Sam' Riddle, and Sara 'Nikki' Lowery

Braswell's surviving daughters.

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The takeaway

Braswell's life was a testament to the enduring values of community, family, and a deep appreciation for the natural world that have long defined the Spruce Pine region. His passing will be deeply felt by all who knew him and his legacy will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.