Brandon Michael Shipman, 43, of Kilgore was born on October 22, 1982, in Longview, Texas, passed away on July 30, 2026, at Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma. Brandon’s life was marked by a spirit of kindness, a devotion to family, and an unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

A beloved husband, father, son, and brother, Brandon’s presence enriched the lives of all who knew him. His warmth and caring attitude were readily apparent to everyone he met—Brandon never met a stranger, and his genuine honesty and hardworking nature made him a cherished friend and confidant.

Brandon is survived by his wife, Samantha Shipman, with whom he shared a steadfast partnership built on love and mutual respect. Together, they raised two sons, Dominik and Braden Shipman, who were the pride and joy of his life. Brandon’s commitment to his family was the cornerstone of his world, as he found deep happiness in spending time with those he cared for most.

In addition to his immediate family, Brandon is survived by his father, Walter Shipman and his wife Gwynn; his brother, Chris Skiles; and his sisters, Misty Watson and Brandee Ratheal. His extended family includes mother-in-law Toni Willoughby; sisters-in-law Melinda Domain and her husband Daniel and Jamie Thomas and her husband Kenne as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many other loving family and friends. Each of these relationships was marked by warmth, camaraderie, and fond memories.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Shipman, and father-in-law, Sam Willoughby, who both held special places in his life and heart.

Brandon valued service to others above all else. He served honorably in the United States Army as a mechanic, maintaining Chinook Helicopters while deployed in Iraq. This chapter of his life displayed his remarkable sense of duty, technical skill, and dedication to his country.

After his service, Brandon built his career as a Remote Operations Technician for Downing Energy, where his strong work ethic and reliability earned the respect of colleagues and peers alike.

An avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, Brandon’s passion for baseball provided many joyful moments. His enthusiasm for the game was matched only by his joy in gathering with family and friends, sharing laughter, and creating lifelong bonds.

Friends and family will gather to honor Brandon’s life at a visitation on August 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Rader Funeral Home, in Kilgore. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m.

Brandon’s legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, and compassion. While his absence leaves a profound void, his memory will continue to inspire all who were privileged to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family request that memorials honoring Brandon be made to the Wounded Warrior Project Foundation at support.woundedwarriorproject.org.