Braeden Stephens, age 35, passed away on June 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with stage four bladder cancer. Braeden faced his diagnosis with the same grit, humor, and heart that defined his entire life.

A 2009 graduate of Riverton High School, Braeden was a long-time server and bartender who redefined the meaning of connection. He was wonderfully weird, a kid at heart who refused to let the adult world dull his sense of wonder. With a radiant smile and a sparkle in his eyes, he lived for the fun moments and loved sharing a cold brew and a laugh with the people he cared about most. He was a massive fan of amusement parks and had a profound love for Disney World, where his inner child could run free. At home, his heart belonged to his adored cats, who provided endless companionship and entertainment.

Braeden is survived by the love of his life and partner, Andrew Smith. Andrew was Braeden’s rock, providing unwavering love, comfort, and dedicated care through his hardest days. Andrew's parents, siblings, and their spouses became a true second family to Braeden, embracing him with open arms.

He is also survived by his siblings, Amber Shields, Kipling Sandoval, Tyler Stephens, and Camden Stephens, as well as his bonus mom, Betty Stevenson, who showered Braeden and Andrew with love, support, and comfort at the end of his journey. For Braeden, friends truly became his chosen family.

Braeden was preceded in death by his mother, Sherril Ann Walters.

He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, a reminder to never grow up too much, and a community of friends and family who will toast his memory for many years to come