John William Brazel

John William Brazel, passed away on July 30, 2024. Born on October 26, 1963, in Savannah, John moved to Reidsville at an early age, and would go on to graduate from Reidsville High School, Class of 1981. During his high school years, he was known for his vibrant voice as a disc jockey at WTNL Radio from 1979 to 1981. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving his country with honor for six years before being honorably discharged.

 Driven by a passion for learning, John actively pursued higher education. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, with double minors in Physics and Linguistics, from Georgia Southern University in 1990. He furthered his education at Eastern Kentucky University, where he received a Master of Public Administration and studied Intergovernmental Relations, graduating in 1992. During his time in college, he continued to share his voice as an On-Air Personality at WEKY Radio in Richmond, Kentucky, until his graduation.

 John’s professional career was marked by his dedication to government affairs. He served as the Manager of Government Affairs and Lobbyist at the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce from 1992 to 2000. He then worked at the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission’s Office of Statute Revision from 2000 to 2002. His commitment to advocacy continued as he held the position of Assistant Executive Director and Lobbyist at both the Kentucky Pharmacists Association (2002-2006) and the Associated General Contractors of Kentucky (2006-2011).

 After retiring from his high-profile career, John sought a slower pace but soon realized he couldn't sit idle. He worked various jobs, including at Subway in Brunswick, Georgia (2012-2014), and as a Former Rockstar & Expert Godiva Taster at Radial of Brunswick (2014-2019). Most recently, he found joy working at Jack Hill State Park in Reidsville, from July 2019 until early 2024.

John was also a dedicated community member. He actively participated in the local VFW 7764, was a friend of Jack Hill State Park, and founded a chess club at the local middle school, sharing his love for the game with young minds.

 He was a member of Pineview Baptist Church and was preceded in death by his parents, Edsel O. and Alice Brazel; his siblings, Richard Brazel, Kathy Wilson, Jim Brazel and Albert Brazel.

He is survived by his siblings, Ed Brazel Jr. of Collins and Melissa (Tommy) Hulett of Brunswick; a God daughter, Leary Alice Brazel of Ireland; several nieces and nephews.

Memorial funeral services will be conducted 2:00pm on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from the Chapel of Low Country Cremation and Burial with Commander of the VFW Post 6774 Ronnie McCall officiating.  Burial will follow in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.

 John’s legacy is one of service, education, and community involvement. His life was a testament to the power of perseverance, pride in community, and always pushing through with a smile for each person he met. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Low Country Cremation and Burial has the honor to serve the Brazel family.