Bart Broadnax
Born April 18, 1955, Portsmouth, Virginia
Died June 20, 2026, Los Angeles, California

Bart Broadnax, noted, cherished, and celebrated musician, brother, and stepfather, passed away on June 20, 2026 from complications of heart failure. He was 71 years old.

Bart was born on April 18, 1955 at Maryview Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia. His early education included Our Lady of Victory, and Holy Angels Elementary Schools, St. Paul Junior High, and Great Bridge High School. He graduated from Great Bridge High School in 1972. Bart attended Virginia Tech and graduated from Norfolk State University with a music degree featuring the Acoustic Bass.

Professional Career

Bart moved to Las Vegas in 1980. He became a longstanding member of the Kirk Stewart Trio. This group was the house band of the Desert Inn and the occasional rhythm section for jazz singer Joe Williams. Upon the death of Mr. Stewart, Bart was appointed musical director for the Sonny Turner group. Sonny Turner was the former lead singer of the R&B group “The Platters”. Bart subsequently relocated to California for professional opportunities.

While in the Irvine/Los Angeles area, Bart was blessed to play with many notable musicians and groups. Among these were Mando and Friends, The Matt Mauser Group, The Revelation Band with Steve Vertrun, The Paul Navidad Quintet, Mark James Wood, Wartime Radio Revue, and the Pinch Me Band among many others. His jazz fusion group, “Visions of LA”, was also a very popular touring group. Bart served as the Musical Director of the worship band at the Pacific Church of Irvine for 20 years.

Personal History

Bart Broadnax was married to Talk Show host Becky Livas in the late 70s to early 80s. 

In April of 1996, Bart married the love of his life Eldena Kay Clement. That marriage lasted blissfully until Eldena’s untimely passing on August 19, 2006.

Bart is survived by his brothers Walter G, Broadnax Jr, and Geary G. Broadnax; his beloved stepdaughter Kirsten Lee Collins-Lepre, and his nephew Walter G. Broadnax III.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pacific Church of Irvine on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 2pm.