Braden’s Furniture to honor second-generation owner’s retirement
The staff is honoring his 49 years of leadership, legacy and community impact.
“We’re grateful for the foundation that’s been built here and for the impact Braden’s Furniture has had in our community over the years,” said Alexander Braden, Gary Braden’s son. “The history of this company is something special, and we’re proud to carry it forward.
“After 50 years of faithfully stewarding this business, dad now has the opportunity to take his talents, passion and energy into a new chapter,” Alexander said. “We’re excited to see what God has in store for him next.
“As for the future, my brother and I are well-prepared to lead,” the son said. “He brings more than 25 years of experience in the business, managing our inventory flow and leading our sales team with deep knowledge of both product and people.
“Over the last three years, I’ve stepped into the company after 15 years in technology and design in Austin, Texas,” Alexander said. “I now lead from the systems, marketing and back-office side. Together, our skills complement one another, and we’re eager to continue building on the legacy we’ve inherited.”
“His visionary leadership has guided the company for nearly half a century,” a press release stated. “Since joining the family business in 1977, Gary has carried forward the spirit of his parents, McKinley and Mildred Braden, who first opened the doors of Braden’s on May 1, 1956.
“To honor Gary Braden’s remarkable career and mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter, Braden’s is hosting a $12 million retirement sale at its Turkey Creek showroom and Maryville warehouse — offering customers unprecedented savings on quality furniture, rugs and home décor.
The sale opens 10 a.m., Friday, Sept. 12, at the Turkey Creek Showroom, 11105 Turkey Drive, Maryville Warehouse, 119 Air Bag Way, Maryville.
There will be storewide reductions up to 70 percent off, with financing options and immediate delivery available.
Legacy of growth and innovation
“Gary took the reins of Braden’s at just 25 years old, ushering in a new era of growth while staying true to the company’s family-centered values,” the press release stated. “From the 1982 acquisition of Fowler Brothers Furniture to the launch of a 110,000-square-foot super-store in 1989, Gary always dreamed big and delivered bold experiences for customers.”
Lifestyle destination
The release stated the opening of the Turkey Creek Lifestyle Showroom in 2004 “transformed Braden’s into a regional design destination, offering everything from Stick-ley’s American craftsmanship to Natuzzi’s Italian leather and Ekornes’ Stressless seating.”
Community anchor
Today, “Braden’s partners with more than 200 premier vendors, providing an unmatched selection of furnishings for every style and every home,” the release added.
Honoring a career built on faith and service
“Gary’s leadership has always been about more than furniture,” the release stated. “He built relationships, in-vested in people and inspired a culture of faith, resilience and service.
“Customers and staff alike have long admired his gener-osity, vision and unwavering belief in Knoxville as a place where family businesses can thrive,” it added.
“Gary’s story is one of faith, perseverance and commitment,” Gary’s son Alexander Braden said. “He taught us that a business is not just about sales but about serving people — and that’s the heart of Braden’s Furniture.”
Looking ahead
As Gary retires, the third generation — led by sons Nick and Alexander — “will carry forward the family’s mission while infusing new energy into the business. Renovations, expanded design services and enhanced customer experiences are on the horizon, ensuring that Braden’s remains Knoxville’s home for quality furniture and timeless design.
“Founded in 1956, Braden’s Furniture has been a corner-stone of Knoxville’s retail landscape for nearly 70 years,” the press release stated. “Known for its exceptional quality, personalized service and timeless design, it continues to bring comfort and beauty to homes across East Tennessee.”
