DAVID R. BRALEY

     David R. Braley, 77, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, November 15, 2017. He was born in Worcester, the son of John W. and Anita E. (DesRosiers) Braley and had lived in Holden and Paxton before moving to Ware seven years ago.

He leaves his loving wife of 30 years, Janice M. (Johnson) Braley; two sons, Mark D. Braley and his wife, MaryEllen, of Worcester and Matthew T. Braley and his wife, Gillian of Paxton; his daughter, Laura A. Sefton and her husband, Jay of Jefferson; three grandchildren, Meghan P., Lucas D. and Carolyn M. Braley; the mother of his children, Barbara M. (Stone) Braley of Paxton; and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, John W. Braley, Jr. and Thomas M. Braley, and his sister, Karen P. Cusson.

David graduated from St. Peter’s High School in Worcester, received a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Worcester State College and earned his Master of Science degree in Administration from Framingham State College. He worked in the Worcester Public Schools for 39 years, serving as the principal of several elementary schools. He retired as the principal of Harlow Street School.

He proudly served his country with the 212th Air National Guard for twenty-five years and was a member of the National Education Association and the Massachusetts Teachers Association. David was devoted to his family, loved to spend time with his grandchildren, and enjoyed golfing and cooking.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, November 19, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A celebration of David’s life will be held on Monday, November 20, leaving from the funeral home for a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary’s Church, 114 Princeton Street, Jefferson. Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to provide nature education  opportunities for inner city children may be made to the Dr. Deirdre Loughlin Fund, c/o Mass Audubon at Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester, MA 01604.