Von Scales Obituary, ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Von Scales, a former standout basketball player and longtime member of the St. Louis basketball community, has died at the age of 58. News of his passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from family members, friends, former teammates and members of the community who remembered him as a devoted father, talented athlete and generous friend.
Scales was known in St. Louis for his basketball career, including his time at DeSmet High School in the mid-1980s. He later attended the University of Missouri–St. Louis, where he played on teams that included the 1988 squad that advanced to the NCAA Tournament. Friends remembered him as an exceptional athlete with a smooth left-handed shooting stroke and a player whose abilities stood out both in high school and college basketball.
Beyond his playing career, Scales remained connected to the sport and the St. Louis basketball community. He spent time participating in the Bonner Summer League and later worked as an assistant coach with the St. Louis Surge women’s professional basketball team. His former teammates and friends recalled not only his ability on the court but also the relationships he built throughout his years around the game.
Scales was also remembered as a dedicated father to his three sons, Evan, Cameron and Brendan, who were described as standout athletes at Lafayette High School. One of his sons wrote that his father had sacrificed everything to see his children succeed and had always encouraged them to become better than he was. He recalled Scales being there during one of the lowest points of his life, offering confidence and support when it was most needed.
Friends also remembered Scales for his generosity, curiosity and willingness to stay connected with people. Former roommate and teammate Mark Edward Stanley described him as one of the best athletes he had ever seen on a team and expressed gratitude that the two had spoken and caught up about a month before Scales’ death.
Scales was also known nationally through his marriage to Trina Braxton of the Braxton family. Tributes shared following his death described the relationship between Scales and Trina as one marked by love and support. Friends and members of the Braxton family expressed condolences to Trina, their children and the wider family as they mourned his passing.
Other friends shared personal memories of Scales, describing a man who could be both outspoken and caring while maintaining close friendships over many years. Those tributes reflected the different parts of his life—as an athlete, husband, father, teammate, coach and friend—and the lasting impression he made on people who knew him.
Von Scales’ death has left his family, friends and the St. Louis basketball community mourning the loss of a man remembered for his athletic talent, devotion to his children and the relationships he built throughout his life. Funeral or memorial arrangements, as well as further details surrounding his death, were not provided in the information available. His loved ones continue to remember his life and legacy with love and gratitude.
