Jerry L. Braziel Sr.

On February 26, 2026, Jerry Braziel Sr. peacefully took his rest, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and love that will continue to live on through all of us.

Jerry was born on September 5, 1957, in Metter, Georgia, to James and Climie Braziel. As the eldest of six children, he naturally stepped into the role of big brother - a title he carried with pride, strength, and just the right amount of bossiness.

Shortly after graduating high school, Jerry joined the United States Marine Corps in 1977. His time in service took him across the country and around the world, including assignments in California and Japan. He served proudly, carrying the discipline and quiet strength of a Marine throughout his life.

While stationed in South Carolina, Jerry met the love of his life, Iliene Williams. Their love story began there, and they were married in 1978. Together they built 42 years of marriage rooted in love, partnership, and family. Though Iliene preceded him in death, there's comfort in knowing their reunion is surely filled with laughter.

After returning home from the Marines, Jerry went into business with his father James and his brother Ozell. Together they built Jimmies Car Polishing, a successful family auto-detailing business that became a source of pride for them all. Jerry mastered the craft, turning hard work and skill into opportunity. Over the years, he continued working in the industry and most recently launched his own business, Tri-State Auto Mobile Detailing - proof that his drive and determination never slowed down.

When he wasn't working, Jerry found joy in cooking, grilling, and spending quality time with his family. If you ever had a plate from him, you already know - he didn't play about his grilling and having a good time.

Many knew Jerry as quiet, laid back, and calm - steady as they come. But if you knew him well, then you definitely met "JB." JB was the boisterous one. The outgoing one. The funny one. The life of the party. He could shift a room's energy with a joke, a story, or just that unmistakable presence. He was dependable - the kind of man you could call when you needed help, advice, or just someone to show up. And he would show up.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Iliene Braziel; his father, James Braziel; and his brothers, Ozell and Fred Braziel.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Shonda Braziel of Charlotte, NC; Jamal Braziel (Taiche) of West Haven, CT; Sheri Braziel (Oyani) of Charlotte, NC; Jerry Braziel Jr. of Bridgeport, CT; Steven Williams of Bridgeport, CT; and Renten Aklin of West Haven, CT.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Keyara Braziel, Tomais Braziel, Story Braziel, and Masen Braziel, all of Connecticut.

He is also survived by his loving mother, Climie Sue Braziel. His sisters, Brenda Lewis (Wilcher) of Macon, GA, and Carolyn Randall (Willie) of Bridgeport, CT, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who will forever carry his stories and spirit with them.

Jerry lived a life defined by service, hard work, love for his family, and a personality big enough to fill any room. Whether you knew him as Jerry or JB, one thing is certain - he made an impression that will not be forgotten.