Walter G. Brakey Jr.

Walter Glennie Brakey, Jr., known to most as Glenn, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, at the age of 79 in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Born on October 28, 1945, to Walter and Gladys (Prior) Brakey, Glenn was a proud graduate of Holyoke High School and Springfield College. He served his country as a Naval Cryptologist on active duty for two years and continued his commitment in the Naval Reserves, retiring in 1989 as a Chief Cryptologist. His civilian career included engineering work at a Springfield Foundry and later as a Senior Cost Engineer at Hasbro. Glenn was a man of quiet intelligence, humility, and deep kindness. A devoted husband, he was predeceased by the love of his life, Elizabeth Moffat Brakey, whom he married in 1966, and his brother David in 2003. He is survived by, his sister Laurie Lapointe and her husband Randy of Greenwich, CT, cousins Barbara Connor of Vermont and Beverley Ritchea of Athol, his cherished Navy family, and extended family and friends. Glenn also leaves behind his dedicated caretaker Jennifer Carleton and her husband Matthew, who became like family. His passions were simple yet meaningful: coin collecting, nature photography, and fishing at the Quabbin. In his later years, as mobility declined, Glenn found comfort in his recliner and stayed informed through his beloved Fox News. Walt, Glenn, Walter…whatever name you knew him by, it was synonymous with kindness. He made a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether through Christmas cards, cookies, or just his warm demeanor, Glenn made people feel cared for. His presence lit up any room-from doctor's offices to care facilities-where staff and friends alike adored his calm nature and kindness. Stubborn at times, yes, but he was also the smartest person many of us knew-sharp as ever right to the end. The family wishes to thank the compassionate teams at Day Brook Village, Renaissance Manor, and Beacon Hospice for their dedicated care. Friends and family are invited to Walter's graveside service on Monday, May 19th at 10 am at the Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In honor of Glenn, memorial contributions can be made to Beacon Hospice, Folds of Honor, or the Wounded Warrior Project. For more information, please visit obrienfamilyfh.com