Thomas H. Braddock

Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame

Thomas H. Braddock was born in Duval County, Florida. He currently manages his cattle and timber operation while remaining active in the Florida agricultural community.

Braddock attended the University of Florida where he earned a B.A. and M.S. in agriculture. While in the graduate program, Braddock began to study methods to reduce winter maintenance costs for beef cattle. He conducted a 12-week research project called “Interval Feeding of Ruminants” using cattle and sheep. Interval feeding was adopted by many cattlemen and helped reduce operational costs. Braddock's research and other similar studies have reduced production costs not only in Florida, but also in other states.

Braddock first led the 4-H Youth Development program for the Duval County Extension office in 1957. He eventually became the Extension Director and held this position until his retirement in 1995. During his career with the Extension Service, he hosted a local television show called “Hi, Neighbor” from 1975 to 1991. The program featured guest interviews and demonstrations mainly on agriculture, natural resources, family life, leadership, citizenship and youth development.

Braddock is passionate about mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders. He and his wife, Mary, created an endowment program. The Thomas H. Braddock Jr. Trust Agreement pledged $1,7 million to the University of Florida Foundation to establish an endowed chair in the Department of Animal Sciences, to support the Florida 4-H Leadership Program and to support the Duval County 4-H program. This unselfish investment in our youth is helping to ensure a healthy agricultural interest for future generations throughout the state.