Brandon Kerr Baughman's Obituary
Brandon Kerr Baughman, 50, of Unionville, Missouri, passed away.
Brandon was born on October 8, 1975, in Unionville, Missouri, to Bruce and Ann Baughman.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, J. Lee Klinginsmith; his paternal grandparents, Richard and Joann Baughman; and his son, Damion Hunt.
He is survived by his maternal grandmother, June Klinginsmith.
Brandon's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his children: Brianna Hunt, Haylee Baughman, Jacob Baughman (fiancé Hannah Hinners), and Chris Baughman. His grandchildren, Damion Baughman and Henley Zimmerman, brought him immense happiness and lovingly called him "Grumpy"—a title he carried proudly and wore well.
He is also survived by his siblings, Nathan Baughman (Janelle) and their eight children; Nicole Waugh (Brian); and Brooke Marvin (Wade) and their five children, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and loved ones who will miss him deeply.
Brandon served his country in the United States Army as a combat engineer, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). He was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and served with distinction as part of the 2-28 Brigade Combat Team, authorized to wear the Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for Former Wartime Service of the 28th Infantry Division. During his service, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and other commendations.
He later earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Drafting and Virtual Reality from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa.
Brandon never knew a stranger. He had a way of making people feel welcome, whether you had known him for years or had just met him. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it, and many have said he took them in and changed their lives for the better.
He loved his grandchildren and had a special way of connecting with them, just as he did with everyone around him.
Brandon was always cooking new and interesting dishes, bringing people together around food and creating moments that turned into lasting memories.
He especially loved life on the farm, where he spent time with his kids, his dogs, and his favorite cow, Ribeye—a place where he was most at home.
Above all, he will be remembered as someone who showed up—for his family, for his friends, and for anyone who needed him.
What’s your fondest memory of Brandon?
What’s a lesson you learned from Brandon?
Share a story where Brandon's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Brandon you’ll never forget.
How did Brandon make you smile?