Crescent Community Clinic

A Tribute to Dr. Beatrice (Bea) Braun

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To Shine Was Her Calling

Dr. Beatrice “Bea” Braun (1921–2013) was a shining example of compassion, service, and lifelong dedication to helping others — especially those who could not afford care.

For many years, Dr. Braun volunteered two days a week at Crescent Community Clinic as a psychiatrist and counselor. She also provided free mental health services to clients at the Hernando County Health Department. Her presence brought hope and healing to countless uninsured and underserved individuals in our community.

A Life of Extraordinary Service

Born in New York, Dr. Braun began her remarkable journey as a Maryknoll Sister. During the Korean War, at the request of General Douglas MacArthur, she and five other sisters provided humanitarian aid to refugees in Pusan, Korea. She spent 17 years in Korea before returning to the United States.

She earned her doctorate in psychiatry from Marquette University and, together with her beloved husband Dr. Richard Braun, operated a family psychiatry practice in New York for 30 years. After retiring to Florida, they continued their volunteer work with unwavering passion.

Key Highlights of Dr. Braun’s Legacy:

  • First Director of Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs
  • Served 8 years on the National Board of AARP
  • Helped create SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) — a volunteer program assisting seniors with Medicare/Medicaid
  • Recipient of the prestigious Ethel Percy Andrus Award for Community Service (2009)
  • Tireless volunteer at Crescent Community Clinic and Nature Coast Community Health Center for over two decades

Words of Gratitude

“If there was any one person who deserved the undying gratitude of the citizens of Hernando County, it was Bea Braun.”
— Nick Morana, longtime friend

“To me, she provided a beautiful example for everyone to follow.”
— Barbara Sweinberg, Administrator, Crescent Community Clinic

Her Light Continues

Dr. Braun’s compassion, intellect, and generosity touched thousands of lives — from refugees in Korea to seniors in Florida and patients at our clinic. She proved that one person truly can make a profound difference.

Her legacy inspires every volunteer, donor, and staff member at Crescent Community Clinic to continue the work she loved so deeply.

Thank you, Dr. Bea Braun. You will always be remembered.

Written with love and gratitude by Carolyn De Los Santos, Volunteer
Crescent Community Clinic | Spring Hill, Florida