Peter McCloud Braswell

Peter McCloud Braswell, age 70 died on Monday, June 1, 2015 of congestive heart failure and complications from diabetes in Ajijic, Mexico, where he had made his home since his retirement ten years ago. He was a much sought after interior designer in the New Orleans area and owned and operated Braswell Interiors in Harahan, LA. He was an Alabama native, a graduate of Parson's School of Design in New York and a resident of New Orleans for over 20 years. He was a member of the American Society of Interior Design. Braswell was active in numerous New Orleans charitable organizations. He was instrumental in the founding of the Buddy Program for NO/AIDS Task Force during the AIDS epidemic in the late 1980's, which paired patients afflicted with AIDS/HIV with volunteers who were able to mentor and assist their assigned buddies. He developed and taught a "Buddy Program Training" to new volunteers of the task force for many years. He received the Humanitas Award given by the Task Force for his unselfish and dedicated work. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Belle Reve (Shelter Resources, Inc.), a residence for people living with AIDS/HIV and will be remembered for organizing some its most successful fundraising events. He was a founding board member of "Friday Night Before Mardi Gras", a local volunteer non-profit organization that raises money for AIDS and HIV related service providers. He was an active member of Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church and was involved in the reconstruction of the building after its steeple collapse and roof destruction following Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Braswell is survived by his partner, Gerardo Medina of Ajijic, a cousin Linda Lee Counts of Mobile, AL and a multitude of loving friends both in New Orleans and Mexico. Peter will always be remembered for his many accomplishments in the New Orleans non-profit arena, his quick wit and sharp tongue while always helping his friends and acquaintances. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 19, 2015 at 11:00 AM in the sanctuary of Rayne Memorial United Methodist Church, 3900 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans with the Rev. Carol Crawford officiating. Information, (504) 835-2341.