Gerald "Big G" Braziel

Gerald Braziel, known affectionately to many as "Big G," passed away peacefully at his home in Royal, Arkansas, on April 27, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on June 14, 1944, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Gerald lived a life marked by generosity, warmth, and a genuine love for people and community.

A graduate of Lake Hamilton High School, Gerald built a distinguished career as a self-employed dump truck owner and operator. Beyond his professional endeavors, he was also a member of Piney Baptist Church, and was widely recognized for his spirited personality—always greeting others with a smile and offering a helping hand. Those who knew him well remember that he never met a stranger, and his enthusiasm for life was infectious.

Gerald's passion extended into his many interests and community affiliations. He was an active participant in the National Street Rod Association, the Lone Star Street Rod Association, and the No Name Gang Car Club. Over the past 25 years, Gerald impressively completed the NSRA’s Iron Man Run—a grueling 3,000-mile journey from Sacramento, California, to Tampa, Florida, undertaken in three days—on five separate occasions. His commitment to the street rod community was further recognized in 2008 when he received the prestigious Arkansas Street Rodder of the Year award. In 2019, he achieved a remarkable milestone as the first individual to attend all twelve NSRA events across the United States.

Gerald's life was rich with meaningful relationships. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Roach Bates Braziel of Royal, Arkansas, sons Gerald Braziel Jr. and wife Sylvia of Royal, Arkansas, and Dale Bates and wife Pam of Hot Springs, Arkansas; daughters Vicky Sanders and husband Brad of Royal, Arkansas, Becky Sheets and husband Greg of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and Miranda Cocerill of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Gerald’s brother, Royce Braziel, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, also mourns his loss.

His legacy is carried forward by a cherished extended family including grandchildren Patricia Chapman (Courtney), Whitney Bradee (Matt), Nick Sanders (Michelle), Keri Sanders, Whitley Bates, Danielle Bates, Lane Bates, J.D. Bates, Jasmine Bates, Abby Sheets, Emily Sheets, and Clay Cockerill; and great-grandchildren Colin Sockwell, Isaac Sockwell, Mya Sanders, Olivia Sanders, Amelia Sanders, Alexia Sanders, Hunter Bates, and Annie Neese. Gerald’s memory is also held dear by nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a wide circle of treasured friends.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Holland and Thirra Braziel; his brother, Buddy Braziel; his first wife, Nancy Hensley Braziel; and his grandson, David Chapman.

Per Gerald’s own wishes, there will be no public services. A private family gathering will be planned at a later date to honor and celebrate his life. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Fred Divers of Genesis Cancer & Blood Institute, Dr. James McCarley of Hot Springs Radiology, and the staff of Arkansas Hospice for their kindness and compassionate care during Gerald’s illness.

Gerald’s warmth, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering spirit touched many lives. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.