Gerald Brayson

Gerald Joseph Brayson

Jerry Brayson, 74, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026.

Jerry was born on February 24, 1951, in Old Town, to Michael and Florence Brayson. He grew up in Exeter, the town he loved deeply and where he spent his entire life.

He was married to the love of his life, Carol Brayson, for 52 years. Their love story began when Carol was 16 and Jerry was 18, a bond that lasted a lifetime. While Jerry bravely served his country in Vietnam as a member of the 101st Airborne Division, the two wrote love letters to one another, sustaining their connection across distance and hardship.

Jerry's greatest and most important job was being a father to his three children-Karyn, Patric, and Paula-and a devoted Papa to his grandchildren: Katie, Alex, Pat, Nate, Grace, and Sophie. Family was always at the center of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; his daughter Karyn Chadbourne and her husband Curt, and their children Alexander and Nathan; his son Patric Brayson and his children Kathryn and Patric II; and his daughter Paula Cole and her husband Pierce, and their children Grace and Sophie. He is also survived by his sisters Pearl (Elvin), Dorisann, Linda (Darrell), and Marie (Paul); his sister-in-law Judy (Mark); his brothers Michael and Johnny (Barb); his brother-in-law Mark; and his nieces and nephews, along with extended family members and many dear friends.

Jerry retired from Local 1377 and, for much of his life, ran a small family farm with his father-in-law, growing corn and dry beans. He was hardworking, tough, stubborn, determined-and also funny and charming in his own way. He led every day as an example to his children, never missing work, showing up tirelessly, and giving his all in every situation-not for recognition, but to teach by example the value of dedication, responsibility, and integrity.

In retirement, Jerry quietly cared for others-bringing an elderly aunt to appointments, delivering meals or cookies to a friend he was thinking of, and always watching out for the people around him. His faith was a deeply important part of his life and helped carry him through even the most difficult times. He read his Bible from beginning to end five times, beginning a sixth and making it to First Kings before it became too difficult for him to sit at the table. Though he knew he was not perfect, he tried to live by its words and often encouraged others to do the same.

One of Jerry's greatest joys later in life was taking slow rides around town in his truck with his beloved dog, Toby, keeping an eye out for deer and other wildlife.

Jerry loved nature, spending time by the pond, and watching the birds that came to his feeders. He took pride in identifying each one and eagerly shared when a rare bird appeared. He loved giving everyone a nickname and teasing people in a lighthearted way that made them smile. A natural storyteller, Jerry made friends wherever he went and left a lasting impression through his warmth, grit, and generosity.

He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Florence Brayson; his parents-in-law Carroll and Lisbeth Buswell; his brother Robert Brayson; his sister Charlene Brasslett; and his brother-in-law Dale Watson.

The family would like to thank the Lafayette Cancer Care of Maine and Grant 6 Chemo Nurses at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center for their care and support.

Jerry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.