Dennis Dixon Brafford was born in Igloo, SD on November 25, 1947, to Ephraim and Gertrude Brafford. He was the oldest of seven children. Dennis graduated high school in 1965 and was proud to be a Provo Rattler. Upon graduation, Dennis was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served as an M.P. and was a qualified marksman and did a tour in the Vietnam War. After returning back to the States, Dennis enrolled in a cabinet building school in San Francisco, CA. Dennis was a craftsman with wood and enjoyed carving as well as shaping pipe stone.

He enjoyed sports and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, Boston Celtics and loved the Chicago Bears. Dennis loved to play golf, bowling, playing pool, rock climbing, rock hunting and spending time with his family and friends.

Dennis never met a stranger in his life and was known as a peaceful warrior by his family. He loved his family beyond measure. He had a gentle soul and a heart of gold with all the patience in the world. Very articulate and was hard to beat when Jeopardy was on the T.V.

Everyone was Dennis’ friend. He loved his animals and spending time with his grand kids. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Hazel; by his brother, Neil (Jenny) Brafford; sister, Susie Brafford; his sons, Kelly; Jacob; Jeremy; Kevin and many nieces, nephews and his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ephraim and Gertrude Brafford; brothers, Guy Brafford, Bart Brafford and sisters, Lorna Jones Brafford and Kathy Brafford.

Dennis will be greatly missed by all that knew him, he was a spirited soft soul and was welcomed in many circles. Fly High Dennis. You were an inspiration to many. Even though you are gone, but not forgotten.

Services at Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026.

A celebration of life to follow at the Victory Bar in Edgemont, SD, on October 24, Saturday. This is what Dennis wanted so let’s get together and celebrate a wonderful man that was our family member and everyone’s friend.