Dr. John Brakebill, 69, longtime Sherman veterinarian, died Wednesday, February 18th, at his home. A service celebrating his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21st at Sherman Country Club on Gibbons Rd. Rev. Thomas Masterson, of the Hope Church in San Antonio, will officiate. Dr. Brakebill was born on June 4, 1945, in Dallas, TX, the son of John Benton and Opal Gentry Brakebill. He was raised in Austin and attended Southwest Texas State University and the University of Texas. He earned his degree in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University in 1975. Dr. Brakebill married the love of his life, Danette Brakebill, in Houston on December 17, 1976. They moved to Sherman shortly afterward to join Dr. Larry Edwards in his veterinary practice. He established Brakebill Veterinary Hospital in 1986 and worked there until the time of his death. An avid and active outdoorsman, Dr. Brakebill enjoyed boating, golfing, fishing and hunting, as well as riding motorcycles and bicycles and flying airplanes. He was a former member of the Sherman Jaycees and the Woodlawn Country Club. In recent years, he volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and had worked to improve the habitat of the Sherman Country Club. Dr. Brakebill is survived by his wife, Dannette; daughters, Erica (Danny) Guest, of North Richland Hills, Barbara (Blaine) LeGere, of Austin, and Ashley (Eric) Blanchard of Fort Hood; one sister, Sandra (Craig) Fallon, of Jupiter, FL; granddaughters Ella Guest, Jocelyn, Genevieve and Roxanne LeGere, Elliette and Cadence Blanchard; grandson Grayson Blanchard; nieces, Sarah, Jessica and Meredith; nephews, Nicholas, William and Matthew; great-nieces Emery and Sydney; and his beloved dogs Remy and Pearl. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society, ARF House, or a charity of the donor's choice.
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03/27/2015
Theresa Coffey
Danny, I came into the clinic today with Cooper, and at the time, I didn't know John had passed. I owe you a thousand and one hugs, to repay you for all the times you consoled me over the passing of my son, Kurt. You didn't know it, but those hugs you gave me sustained me for one more day. Dr. Brakebill was always so very kind and understanding with all of my pets over the years. When I was much younger, I would leave the clinic, wishing I could have found a marriage like yours. Please, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless. ~ Theresa Coffey
03/27/2015
Theresa Coffey
I sent a message just now, but I think it got lost. I came into the clinic today with Cooper, and at the time I didn't know of John's passing. I owe you a thousand and one hugs, and apologies. You have comforted me over the years concerning the passing of my son, Kurt, and you never knew how your hugs got me through another day. Over the years, I would leave the hospital, and wish I could have found a love like yours and John's. You two were truly a pair made in Heaven. He will be waiting for you when God decides it's your turn. I have always asked you to give all of those grand babies an extra hug for me, and I'm asking you to do that now. Find comfort in all the love you and John have created. And again, please please accept my apologies for today. My prayers will be filled with thoughts for you. God bless. ~ Theresa Coffey, Pottsboro, Texas
02/26/2015
Ginger Lopez
Sorry for your loss, We thought the world of Dr.Brakebill when it came to careing for our pets. Our Prayers go out to the family.....Joe & Debbie Lopez ~ Ginger Lopez, Sherman, Texas
02/26/2015
The Biasi Family
So sorry to hear this sad news. Prayers from our family to yours in this time of need. ~ The Biasi Family, Denison, Texas
02/25/2015
I'm so sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers are with you Danny and your family Tom and Becky Rains
02/23/2015
Deborah McGregory
Words can't express my sorrow in hearing of Dr. B's death. He was a caring and dedicated man. After I moved to Plano, it took me a long time to trust any vet with my dogs. You are all in my thoughts and prayers in this difficult time. ~ Deborah McGregory, Plano, Texas
02/23/2015
john spears
So sad - condolences for your loss. ~ john spears, sherman, Texas
02/23/2015
Dear Danny and all, I was out of town and unable to attend the service you had. I know this is hard for all of you. I thought so much of John and all you all did for my family through the years. He will be missed. Dorothy McKee
02/23/2015
Jim and Nancy Russell
Dear Danny, Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the loss of John. You and your entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time. ~ Jim and Nancy Russell, Sherman, Texas
02/22/2015
Louisa Martin
Dear Danny and family, I'm so sorry to see this in the paper. He, his colleagues and staff have been a great comfort to my dogs and cat. I wish I could have done more for him. Take care of yourselves, please. Louisa Martin ~ Louisa Martin, Whitewright, Texas
02/22/2015
Thinking of you and your lovely family everyday since we heard the sad news of Johns passing. John was such a kind man. He will be missed by many many people. I wish you peace in the days to come, I know your heart is broken. Janet & James fry
02/22/2015
Danny and family, we are so sorry to here about John's death. We had many good times when we were younger. Dan and Hanneke Short
02/22/2015
Ron Engelke
Sorry for loss best friend to my dog and always Took good care there will never be a nice person who care for animal and there owners like him we will miss him a lot now he is taking care of all animals in haven ~ Ron Engelke, Sherman, Texas
02/22/2015
DeQuita Engelke
Praying for Dr John Brakebill's family he was our pets Veterinarian and my good friend. ~ DeQuita Engelke, Sherman, Texas
02/22/2015
Jerry and Gerda Huffman
Dear Danny, Please accept our deepest sympathies. ~ Jerry and Gerda Huffman, Sherman, Texas
02/22/2015
My prayers are with all of you! I just found out today, Sunday at work and called my sister with the heart wrenching news. I so would have been there in person to offer our love and support. We will pray for guidance and know for a while there will only be one set of footprints - he will be carrying you! All our love, Donna West, Linda Chambers, Cody, Daisy and Sassy
02/22/2015
dianne Runnels
My thoughts and prayers go out to him and the family. He was always a nice man and vet to our pets. God bless! ~ dianne Runnels, Sherman, Texas
02/21/2015
Jane and Dave Phillips
We are so sorry to hear about John's death. Such a loss to the community, too. Erica and our Emily were good friends at Wakefield, and John cared lovingly for our Poco. Blessings on you and all, Danny! ~ Jane and Dave Phillips, San Antonio, Texas
02/21/2015
I am sad for your loss. I hope the best for you and your family. Sam Lusk
02/21/2015
Rocky Terrell
Danny, even though I moved ten years ago I always remembered you, Dr Brakebill and staff.Condolences, you are in my prayers. ~ Rocky Terrell, Bull Shoals, Arkansas
02/21/2015
Brent Wilkens
We are so sorry for the loss of Dr. John. Through the years we have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Brakebill and his animal patients that he referred to us. He was a kind, compassionate veterinarian who obviously loved both his clients, as well as their pets. We will keep him in our thoughts and prayers. Dr. Brent Wilkens and the surgeons of the Dallas Veterinary Surgical Center. ~ Brent Wilkens, Gunter, Texas
02/21/2015
Gene & Barbara Bailey
Our condolences to the family of Dr. Brakebill, friends and staff. As our vet he was trusted and loved for his care, concern and wit. Decades of care for our four legged family. Eugene and Barbara Bailey, Rissa and Bulldog for the memory of: Dr.Brakebill, Samantha, Zues, Doofus and Roxie. ~ Gene & Barbara Bailey, Sherman, Texas
02/21/2015
Kim, Ken and Morgan Williams
Dear Danny, I sent you a personal message on FB. We were shocked and deeply saddened by the news of John's passing. We just heard today. Please accept our deepest, most heart felt condolences. May God bless and comfort you and your family. Much love, Kim, Ken, and Morgan Williams & Mom - Barbara Barnhardt ~ Kim, Ken and Morgan Williams, Sherman, Texas
02/21/2015
Max Grober and Karann Durland
Danny, We are so sad and sorry to hear of your loss. John was both a wonderful guy and an amazing vet - knowledgeable, skilled, gentle, kind, and funny, too. The joy he brought to his work meant that seeing him was always a pleasure, and his help to our animal family in some really tough times is something for which we will always be especially grateful. He was a bright light in Sherman and will be missed. Our thoughts are with you - ~ Max Grober and Karann Durland, Denison, Texas
02/21/2015
Danny, Patti and I just got back this afternoon from being out of the country for a week and were stunned to see a text from Ann on my phone as I regained phone service when we landed. We are both shocked and saddened for you. Patti and I both are so sickened by the fact that we weren't back in time for the Memorial service. We simply didn't know. John was such such a big part of our extended Sherman family for so many years now (I have lost count) and have enjoyed so many fun times with him. He always had such a great joy and spirit to him and a sense of humor that would always make me smile. Please know that Patti's and my thoughts and prayers will be with you over these next few difficult weeks. And if hanging out with some goats out in Athens can be part if the healing process, just get in your car and drive this way. We are here for you. John and Patti Sebastian
02/21/2015
Miranda & Nick Juneau
Please accept our condolences on the loss of Dr. Brakebill. Our thoughts and prayers are with Danny, his children, and the wonderful staff at the clinic. His passing is surely a loss to everyone that knew him as well as to the community. He will be truly missed. ~ Miranda & Nick Juneau, The Colony, Texas
02/21/2015
Sally Mitchell
Danny and girls...John was one of a kind. He was always so kind to me when my pets had to be put down. We've been gone from Sherman for many years, but I've never found another vet who I liked or respected more. It was always a joy to visit with you Danny, whenever I was at the clinic. RIP dear John. ~ Sally Mitchell, Tyler, Texas
02/21/2015
Billie Mikulin
Danny & family, please accept my condolences on the loss of John. May GOD be with you all. ~ Billie Mikulin, Spring, Texas
02/20/2015
Sandy Garrison
Prayers for the family. So sorry for your loss. I did not know him well but he was always pleasant and smiling when he came into the clinic where I worked for meetings. Always told him he had pretty hair and he would smile and that was truly a compliment. ~ Sandy Garrison, Denison, Texas
02/20/2015
Danny, I was so sorry to hear of John's death. I pray that God will hold you close to him during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Mary Clyde Seitz
02/20/2015
Mary Murphy
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Brakebill was very knowledgeable & kind to my dogs & cat. He was the best veterinarian ever. Danny, you & he seemed made for each other. I hope it will help you & your family to remember that he is not gone--just gone ahead. ~ Mary Murphy, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Debbie and Tom Watt
We are saddened to hear this news. Dr. Brakebill was a sweet man and we were always pleased with the care he gave our dogs over the past 20, or so, years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, Dr. Morris, the staff, and in particular, with you Danny. May you find strength and comfort in your memories. ~ Debbie and Tom Watt, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Bret Clark
My thoughts and prayers are with the Brakebill family, took great care of our dogs for 20+ years always felt good leaving them with the Brakebills, thanks Dr. B. Thoughts are with you Danny. ~ Bret Clark, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Danny and Family, We know a lot of doggies and kitties who are very glad John is with them, now. Our hearts go out to you for your loss. John was a GOOD man. The Richardsons, Robert and Cheryl
02/20/2015
So sad to hear about the loss of a great man. My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends.
02/20/2015
Stacey Salling
I was so very sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to Danny, Ashley, and the rest of the family. I can't imagine the pain. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care of yourselves. ~ Stacey Salling, Austin, Texas
02/20/2015
Ann Shirley
Danny, you and your family are in our hearts and prayers. Dr. Brakebill was always so sweet and kind with our "furkids". I am sure that there will be lots and lots of animals to greet him at the Rainbow Bridge. Your office always makes us feel like we are among friends who know and love our animals. Rest in Peace Dr Brakebill. ~ Ann Shirley, Denison, Texas
02/20/2015
Cathryn Kilgore-Schmidt
Dear Ashley, I am so sorry for your loss. Know that my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. ~ Cathryn Kilgore-Schmidt, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Our hearts are filled with sorrow. Dr. Brakebill will be geatly missed. Jack, Roxie, Duke, Tucker and Rowdy Morris
02/20/2015
Terry Chartier
Dr B & Danny were my 2nd set of parents. He was a wonderful man as a boss & a friend. He will be missed very much. Love to Danny, Erica & Ashley. You're in my prayers. ~ Terry Chartier, Crandall, Texas
02/20/2015
Jon and Wendy Geesling
To hear the news gives us a heavy heart. We will miss him! He was a great person that knew how to take care of our babies. He always made us laugh when we would come to see him. ~ Jon and Wendy Geesling, Denison, Texas
02/20/2015
Elizabeth Phillips
Dr. Brakebill was a kind and wonderful man and veterinarian. He was surrounded by the best people at the clinic. I'm so sorry for everyone's loss but especially Danny and all his family. I never doubted when I left my babies at the hospital that they would be loved and cared for as if they were the pets of everyone at the hospital. The Brakebill family and all the staff are in my prayers. God bless you. ~ Elizabeth Phillips, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Tasha Goldsmith
There's really no words for how wonderful Dr. B was. My great grandmother refused to take her cats anywhere but to see Dr. B and years later when I had the privilege of working with him and Danny I understood why. He will be greatly missed in the community. I love you danny! And I am here if you need anything! ~ Tasha Goldsmith, denison, Texas
02/20/2015
You are in our thoughts and constant prayers at this time of great lost love in John. No words can possibly ease your pain. Just know that many love you and help carry your pain. May God provide comfort to you in His perfect way. Rodger and Brenda
02/20/2015
James and Cindy Kent
Our hearts are filled with sorrow upon hearing the news about Dr. Brakebill. Our most sincere condolences go out to your family. ~ James and Cindy Kent, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
My deepest sympathies to Dr. Brakebill's family.
02/20/2015
Mary Randall- Popplewell
I am truly saddened to learn of such a great loss- Dr. Brakebill. I'm am grateful to have worked with him during my high school years, for it was because of him that I chose the medical profession. I thank him for all of the outstanding years of expertise in the Veterinary field. May God comfort his family and friends during this time of sorrow. ~ Mary Randall- Popplewell, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Barbara Smith
There is a very special place in heaven for John Brakebill He was so kind to all his patients and their owners. ~ Barbara Smith
02/20/2015
Patrick & Elizabeth Arnold
Praying for your family. ~ Patrick & Elizabeth Arnold, Lewisville, Texas
02/20/2015
Marc and Donna Miller
So very sorry for the loss of such a special person, I know he will be greatly missed. Remembering today all the great memories of working along side such a brilliant vet. I truly learned so much and was grateful to have known such a kind and giving man. I am certain "Ben and Larry-bird" were waiting on him in Heaven. Dr. B you will forever be remembered and missed. Danny, Erica and Ashley may God's perfect peace cover you and your family. ~ Marc and Donna Miller, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Karen & Steve Murphy
Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Brakbill's family and office family. ~ Karen & Steve Murphy, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Danny, we were saddened to hear of John's passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and the family. - Sue & Sandy Beach
02/20/2015
carolyn/Dave Thomas
Danny , our thoughts and prayers ares are with you and your family. Treasure your memories they are everlasting ~ carolyn/Dave Thomas, gallatin, Tennessee
02/20/2015
ella
Mrs.Brakebill, Dr. Brakebill was a very nice man to me whenever I came as a "veterinarian". You all will be in my prayers forever and always. I am very sorry for your loss and hope you are okay. lots of love. <3 <3<3 ~ ella, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Danny,we are so saddened to learn of your loss. We are fortunate to have known both you and John as our pets'caretakers and as friends. Know that your are in out thoughts and hearts. Bill and Michelle, Tucson
02/20/2015
Tom & Carolyn Becker
Danny........We are so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow and there are no words to express these feelings. We loved Dr. John so much, he was such a wonderful and caring person and you know how we trusted him with the care of our Furbabies. It's hard to believe he had been caring for them for almost 40 years! Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you in His arms and provide you comfort and healing. Love to you and your family. ~ Tom & Carolyn Becker, Tom Bean, Texas
02/20/2015
Scott Sebastian
Danny, Im sorry to hear about the passing of John.You and John were like 2nd family.The greatest time I had with him was when he took me flying.I had never been in a small plane before so I was not sure how it would go.But it was incredible.He flew all over Texoma so i could see it from the air and then bought my lunch when we landed in Oaklahoma.Then on the way back home flew all over the countryside for me.It was a hell of a trip and one that will never be forgotten. Hope you and the girls and the rest of the family will be all right. Prayers are with you through this time of sorrow. ~ Scott Sebastian, Duncanvile, Texas
02/20/2015
John, Susan, Colin and Sarah McGinn
Danny and the whole Brakebill family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dr. Brakebill was such a wonderful vet - he had the biggest and most loving heart toward all animals, and toward their people too. The St. Francis statue outside the door of the clinic is the perfect symbol of his attitude and philosophy, and so is the heartwarming presence of Lt. Dan greeting visitors in the waiting room. This is such a loss to your family, and to the dogs and cats of Texoma and the people who love them - we are so sorry. ~ John, Susan, Colin and Sarah McGinn, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Vita Rinewalt
I'm so very sad to hear about John's passing. You are all in my prayers and in my heart. He loved his girls. ~ Vita Rinewalt, Frisco, Texas
02/20/2015
linda Mason
Sorry for your loss and prayers to you and your family ~ linda Mason, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Kathy and Wayne Melching
So very sorry to learn of Dr. Brakebill's passing. There are no words to express our sorrow. Our thoughts, prayers and love to you Danny, the girls and staff. It was always like coming to be with family when you walked into the office. Dr. Brakebill had been my chosen veterinarian since the 1980's and will be missed by so many. May you rest in peace Dr. Brakebill and have kisses and and tail waggers surrounding you forever. ~ Kathy and Wayne Melching, Port Saint Lucie, Florida
02/20/2015
Our deepest sympathy....he will be so missed. Don and Janice Thompson
02/20/2015
Jan and Mick Chase
Danny, We were so saddened to get the news of Dr's death. I have such fond memories of the 6 years of working for y'all. You all became my family and I so appreciated all the kindnesses you showed my family. Our prayers are for each of you that God's peace will overcome you and that the happy times you spent with your husband will flood your memories. God bless you. ~ Jan and Mick Chase, Killeen, Texas
02/20/2015
Leslie Jackson
Dr. Brakebill got up in the middle of the night to save my dog, a dog whom he had never laid eyes on. Needless to say, I never took my pets anywhere else from that day forward. I am eternally grateful, as I know so many people in this area are. Prayers for you all during this difficult time. ~ Leslie Jackson
02/20/2015
Amy Hoffman-Shehan
Please accept my deepest condolences. John was a wonderful veterinarian, friend to all his clients, exemplary human being. He will be sorely missed ~ Amy Hoffman-Shehan, Sherman, Texas
02/20/2015
Kirby & Peg Kelley
Danny our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will be ever in our thoughts and memories. With much love. ~ Kirby & Peg Kelley, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Mr.Mrs. Brian Parker
Prayers and blessings for your family at this time. ~ Mr.Mrs. Brian Parker, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
RIP
02/19/2015
Barb & Bobby Floyd
Our hearts are heavy. We will always have fond memories of Dr. B and we sure will miss him !!! Danny, please know you and the family are in our prayers. Rest in Peace Dr. B. With love, Bobby & Barbara Floyd ~ Barb & Bobby Floyd, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Lynn and Linda Mitchusson
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. ~ Lynn and Linda Mitchusson, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Nancy & Randy Shirley
A mentor to many and friend to all, John Brakebill was one of a kind. I am sure Grinner is glad to see him...may God give comfort and love to all. Enjoy your new life in Heaven Dr. John Brakebill! ~ Nancy & Randy Shirley, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Debra Ring
I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that the Lord will comfort you and your family during this time. ~ Debra Ring, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Kim Ring
I was so shocked to hear of Dr. Brakebills passing. He was a great man and a wonderful veterinarian. The best there was. He was so gentle and caring with all of my dogs. He is going to be missed so much. Love you Danny. My prayers are with you and all of the family. ~ Kim Ring, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
Carolyn Ramsey
No words can express how sad I am to hear of John's passing, Danny. He was a very special man; so caring in so many ways. He and you always made me feel special in how ya'll cared for my many animals over 30+ years. He and you always treated my pets like they were your own. Praying for God's comfort and peace for you, your family, and the office staff. ~ Carolyn Ramsey, Sherman, Texas
02/19/2015
He taught me so much and we were all like family atthe clinic........fun to work with...lovebto his family
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