Obituary: Jean Brace

Jean Rae Brace, founder of Oklahoma’s Brace Books & More, died on July 11, 2015, after a brief illness. She was 73.

During a bookselling career that spanned more than 30 years, Brace turned Brace Books & More, which she co-owned with her husband, Jerry, into a flourishing business and a warm, inviting destination for locals and visitors alike. In the late 1980s and early ’90s, Brace shared her knowledge of the book business with prospective booksellers as a volunteer-teacher at ABA’s bookseller schools.

“Jean Brace was a consummate bookseller who earned the respect of her colleagues all over the country,” said ABA CEO Oren Teicher.

Brace is survived by her husband; son David Brace and his wife, Jamie; daughters Melissa Brace and Rebecca Henley; son-in-law Jeff Henley; and four grandchildren.

A reception in Brace’s honor was held at the bookstore on Wednesday, July 15. A memorial service is planned for today, July 16, at 1:00 p.m. at First Christian Church in Ponca City.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Brace Books Christmas Book Angel Program, which provides books to needy children, are welcome. Donations are being accepted at Brace Books & More, at First Christian Church, or online at bracebooks.com.