Dr. Hanford G. Brace

Dr. Hanford G. Brace, age 84, of Avon Park, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 11, 2024. He was born May 29, 1939, in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada to Hanford, Sr. and Florynce Bishop Brace.  He was a graduate of Dalhousie University Medical School in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and started his practice in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, along with his best friend and brother-in-law, Dr. Donald Geldart. In 1976, they accepted positions with Walker Memorial Hospital in Avon Park and moved their families to the sunshine state.

Dr. Brace was a Lifetime Member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and Lifetime Member of the American Academy of Family Practice. He was Founder and President of the Florida Medical Directors Association and served two terms as Chief of Staff of Florida Hospital. Over decades of practice Dr Brace earned a reputation as an excellent diagnostician, and patients have credited him with saving their lives.

In addition to working hard he liked to play as well.

He was an avid downhill skier, scuba diver instructor, a pilot, and boat and RV enthusiast. He loved fast cars.

Dr. Brace is survived by his Wife – Phyllis McKinley Brace of Avon Park, FL; Daughter – Dr. Shelley Brace (John Parsons) of Bradenton, FL; Step-daughters – Paula Rowan of Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; Laura Rowan of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada; Step – Sons – Peter Rowan of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada; Dennis Rowan of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada; Sister – Ruth Geldart (Dr. Donald) of Bradenton, FL; Grandchildren – Tyler, Cory, Rachel;  Step – Grandchildren- Rachel, Joshua, Jacob, Ellie, and Cohen.  He is preceded in death by his Parents; First Wife – Ona Renton Brace; and Daughter – Cynthia Brace.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Avon Park Seventh Day Adventist Church with family receiving friends beginning at 10:00 AM.  Interment will follow in Lakeview Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Walker Memorial Academy, Avon Park, Fl

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
111 E. Circle St.
Avon Park, FL  33825
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com