Remembering Brad Salyers
Bradley William Salyers, 56, passed away on January 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and devotion to family.
Brad was a beloved husband to his wife April, and a loving, devoted father to his son Dylan. Brad and April shared their happy house on the hill overlooking the golf course for nearly all of their 30 years together since meeting as coworkers at Cracker Barrel. They loved travelling to Reds, Tin Caps, and Indians games to catch live baseball as often as possible, especially when they could bring along their three cherished dogs.
Nothing brought “Papaw Brad” more joy than spending time with his two grandchildren, Ripley and Holden. He would spin elaborate tales and invent silly nicknames, and they laughed hard and loud together at every family gathering. He was kind, fun-loving, and gentle, an endlessly patient anchor in the lives of his grandkids, nieces, and nephews.
Brad had a special gift with children. He was a friendly jungle gym for little ones, an exceptional listener, and had a way of making each kid feel important. He generously shared that gift far beyond his own family, to the hundreds of children whose lives he touched through his work as a teacher and wrestling coach in Anderson Community Schools. Mr. Salyers served as a steady, caring, and positive male role model for many kids who needed one. He mentored students not just in athletics, but in kindness, confidence, and how to show up for others.
Brad cherished the small moments that mattered most: experiencing live baseball with April, playing a twilight golf round with his Dad and Dylan, catching the big game on TV with friends, an evening spent fishing, or a cozy holiday with family gathered around the table. Brad began college as a proud Boilermaker before earning his bachelor’s degree in education from Ball State. More recently, he was working toward his master’s in teaching through Trine University. He was a true sports enthusiast, cheering for Purdue and the Reds, collecting a variety of team hats, playing fantasy football and enjoying the occasional friendly wager. Golf was his greatest passion, and he played his signature slice every chance he got with those he loved most. Family was Brad’s foundation, and the rhythm of his life was marked by holiday celebrations and the simple joy of laughing together.
Brad is survived by his wife, April (McConnell) Salyers; his parents, William and JoAnn (Williams) Salyers; his son, Dylan (wife Brittany), and their children Ripley and Holden; brother, Michael (wife Jeanie), and their children Olivia, Jack, and Luke Salyers; along with a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, students, athletes, and friends who adored him. Brad’s presence made life warmer, lighter, and more joyful, and he will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Angela, and his grandparents, Joe and Mable Williams, and Dr. William and Lucia Salyers.
Brad’s Celebration of Life will be held Friday, January 30, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m at Bethany Christian Church in Anderson, IN with Pastor Christopher Bell officiating. We want to thank Rozelle - Johnson Funeral Service for their kindness in helping with arrangements.