Dr. Yolanda J. Brady

Dr. Yolanda J. Brady passed away on June 14, 2025 in Opelika, Alabama. Yolanda leaves an indelible impression on those who called her family, friend, colleague, mentor, and professor. Yolanda’s contagious laugh, playful spirit, and tenacity will be sorely missed. 

Yolanda was born in Greenwood, Mississippi to Lawrence Brady Jr. and Dorothy Allen Brady on August 7, 1956. After completing two degrees in Mississippi, she came to Auburn University where she completed her Ph.D. in Aquatic Animal Health in 1985, and never left. 

 Dr. Brady poured her heart into the AU Fisheries Program where she helped design and teach courses to future aquatic scholars. She fell in love with the ocean during her time researching in the Gulf Coast and hosted many memorable oyster socials. 

 After retiring from Auburn University in 2015, Yolanda became an active participant in the Fisheries Retirement Group. She loved the monthly lunches and social gatherings. Yolanda loved listening to music, seeing movies, watching Auburn Football, and many other sports. She passionately loved her pets and any other animal she encountered. She spent time with her closest friends and Auburn family. 

 Yolanda battled cancer as passionately as she grilled oysters and shouted War Eagle at home games. She never gave up and remained true to herself to the very end. She is preceded in death by her parents. 

 A celebration of her life will be held Friday, July 11, 2025, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika. Visitation begins at 9:00 am, followed by a brief service at 11:00 am.

 For anyone wishing to do so, please send donations to CARE Humane Society in Auburn.