Roy Dale Brazelton

It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the passing of Roy D Brazelton, of Boylston, who went to a peaceful sleep in his home, ending a few years of declining health.

Roy was born October 1, 1941 in Danville Illinois, the son of Roy W and Maxine Moody Brazelton. He grew up in the Village of Tilton. His brother Bob would say it was the best place and the best time to grow up. Fun, mischief, friends, sports, more fun, more mischief. Although in the thick of it, Roy stood out as a model student and "best boy citizen" and above all a hard worker, succeeding in everything he did. From the time he was a boy, delivering newspapers, organizing and running a snow shoveling "business" , and stocking bread at Miller's IGA store, he was always destined for business. Yet, after 1 year of college at the University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana campus, living in Uncle Jack & Liz's basement apartment, he was undecided which way he was to go; a lawyer perhaps? Or business. So, instead, he headed to Chicago with his brother Glen to join the Marines. Upon getting to the signing oUice, Glen was nowhere to be found, but Roy enlisted anyway and headed to Camp Penelton, California where he excelled in communications and procurement and

mentored under the senior leadership.

The biggest historic adventure at the time was the Invasion of the "bay of pigs" and he tells the story of going through the Panama Canal, getting provisions on an APA and getting to the Cuban waters for the invasion. His battalion was at the ready, with arms and ammunition handed out. But they were called back, as the invasion was called off.

After his discharge and thanks by the Marine Corps, he went with his family, to work his way up at Eisner Food Stores, then a division of the Jewel T Co.

He raised his family, worked his way up the corporate ladder, becoming V President of Bakery and Manufacturing at the Eisner Division of Jewel Cos. He graduated in 1977 from the University of Illinois' first MBA program designed for busy professionals actively working in their careers. It was a diverse group and many remained long-life friends.

Then as he questioned the next step, he was tapped on the shoulder by a recruiter, working to bring new energy to the local supermarket chain, Iandoli Supermarkets, based in Worcester, Ma.

At a time when people didn't move into Worcester, he was a novelty. His midwestern twang and swagger and soft but intimidating voice was unusual. He enjoyed greeting the crew at the loading dock, stockers, and back room workers early in the morning. And when back at the office, his door was always open. He was an unusual boss.

He also became very involved in fundraising for local charitable causes. Being involved with United Way in Champaign made jumping into the Worcester chapter easy.

Easter Seals of Massachusetts with then President, Richard LaPierre was closest to his heart. As innovation rapidly evolved, He helped found the assistive technology center in Worcester. It helped those with physical disabilities to be more independent, interesting that those same devices are common place in our homes today. For all of his work, he was honored as Philanthropist of the Year award with the Parker Trowbridge Founders Award, which he humbly accepted at a memorable gala

called the "Black and White" ball.

He became seriously involved with The Lori Lajoie Golf Tournament for Seven Hills Foundation. Lots of stories. He was the guy in the background bidding up the live auction, in case you didn't know. He was an auctioneer's dream.

Anything to do with kids and animals melted his heart. The recognition awards were great and appreciated but he preferred to be low key and quietly give of his purse and his heart.

After selling the Supermarket company to Shaw's, Roy started to enjoy more travel, golf and his home in Boylston. Friends at Worcester CC will all remember the guy with the cup of "apple juice" and a cigar in his mouth as he rode to the 1st teebox. He could sink a putt and puff a cigar at the same time. He was amazing. His claim to fame was winning the Commissioner's Cup at the traditional golf trip to Arizona. Since he wouldn't give the trophy back, they had to buy a new one. Golf was his passion, WAGS, Ryder Cups, Arizona.

He especially loved his winter home in the Cayman Islands which, if he asked you to come visit, he meant it. "Dr Roy" as he was called, enjoyed his power walks on the beach and winning on the volleyball court...and golf and helping the cause for the Cayman Islands Humane Society and Paws in fundraising. Again, the guy in the background, smoking the cigar, raising bids to raise lots of money for the dogs and cats under their care.

He is preceded by his mom and dad, his first wife Margo, nee Schmidt and son Jeff. Also, his brother Glenn aka Ed. At 95 years young, his long-time best friend and mentor/boss, Dave Diana, who gave him the encouragement to dream big and "go for it "also just passed.

He leaves his wife Diane Erickson Brazelton of 39 years, his brother Robert and wife Janet Brazelton of Arizona, his sister Linda and family of Arizona, his brother Dave of Illinois, his son R Douglas and partner Larry of Orlando, Fl. Brother-in-law Dave Erickson and wife Pam, and sister-in-law Brenda Erickson and partner Donna DiGiovanni. He was especially proud of his nephew and godson James Erickson, an entrepreneur with great promise and skill and his fiancé Vy Tran. He adored his nieces Kristina and Stefanie Erickson; "Hi uncle" and a big hug was every greeting.

Special recognition and gratitude to Regina Kiania, Roy's devoted caregiver during these last difficult years. Without her knowledge and support, this would have been an even more difficult journey. Also thank you to Abu who held his hand as he left this world for the next best place.

Roy hates funerals. He hates black. He wanted to celebrate the good times. Further information will be available at a later date. There is much about him to celebrate.

For those inclined, donations can be made in Roy's memory to Easter Seals of Massachusetts, % Paul Medeiros, 18 Chestnut St, Worcester, https://www.easterseals.com/ma/ , Seven Hills Foundation, 81 Hope Ave, Worcester, % Bill Stock https://www.sevenhills.org/ or WARL, Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester. https://worcesterarl.org/donate/