David F. BRAYTON

1927 - 2024

BRAYTON, David F. Age 97, of Marstons Mills, died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 6, 2024. Born on March 6, 1927 in Boston, son of the late Homer and Katheryn (Bosse) Brayton. David grew up in Dorchester and graduated from Boston Latin High School. He developed a love of music at a young age and bought his string bass. David named her "Bessie, the Bass." She was the prized possession of his life.

In 1943, David joined the Navy. He was a member of the U.S. Naval Band that played at FDR's funeral. When the war ended, David moved to NYC to pursue his professional career, where he played with many of the top Big Bands of the era.

A graduate of Boston University, David earned a BA in music theory and later a Master's Degree in music composition. He also completed a second Master's Degree in education from Bridgewater State. David was a music educator for 50 years on the South Shore, primarily in the Weymouth Public Schools and also at Boston Conservatory. "Mr. Brayton" shared his love of music with all his students and influenced many to become music educators and players in theatres and symphony orchestras across the nation. Quite a legacy!

As a professional musician, some of his career highlights included being selected as the House Bass Player at the Shubert and Colonial Theatres, the Musical Contractor for the Cape Cod Melody Tent and the Chateau de Ville Dinner Theatres, and a Bassist with the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra. Although his work introduced him to many Broadway stars and famous artists, his favorite people to be with were always family.

David was a die-hard fan of all Boston Sports Teams. The Red Sox were the team he truly loved and he rarely missed a game. He looked forward to reading the Boston Globe every day to check all the sports news and do the crossword puzzle. David was very proud of his military service and enjoyed wearing his WWII Veterans cap, especially all the attention he received as a member of the Greatest Generation. And he enjoyed ice cream anytime!

Survived by his loving daughters, Caryl Brayton Toole of Hull and Sandra Brayton of Plymouth; stepchildren, Ann Marie Perrault of Marstons Mills and Jeffery Perrault of Manchester, NH; grandchildren, Robert Toole and wife, Sarah of Hingham, Michael Toole and wife, Prarie of Boston, Katheryn McLean and husband, Ryan of Kingston, Samantha Runnels of Plymouth; and step-grandchildren, Brian Runnels of Denver, CO and Hayley Perrault of Manchester, NH; eight beautiful great-grandchildren and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by devoted wife, Eleanor; stepson, Michael Perrault; brothers, Homer and Roger Brayton; and sweet sister, Elizabeth Norcott. Visitation on Monday, May 13, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, in the Chapman Funeral & Cremations, John-Lawrence Chapel, 3778 Falmouth Rd., MARSTONS MILLS, MA, followed by a Graveside Service at 1:30 PM, in MA National Cemetery, Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to The Jimmy Fund or Tunnel to Towers. For online guestbook & directions, visit www.chapmanfuneral.com