Donnie Ray Brawley

Donnie Ray Brawley left this world to join our Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 13, 2024. He died two weeks shy of his 91st birthday in Lufkin, Texas.

Don was born in a farm house in Eldorado, Oklahoma on August 27, 1933. His parents were James and Vertile Faye Brawley. They were cotton farmers and raised cattle that bore the Bar B brand.

Growing up in Eldorado, Don was known as “Skeeter” because of his small physical stature but that was the only thing small about him. Don’s love, his patriotism, his vision, and his drive were immeasurable and will continue to influence the entire Brawley clan.

Don graduated high school in 1951 and was accepted at Oklahoma State University. He was commissioned as an Army Infantry Lieutenant upon graduation and served until 1958 in the Army Reserves as a Captain. Don later became a successful businessman in Alexandria, Louisiana. While in Alexandria, Don met the love of his life, Sue. They were married in Lufkin, Texas in 1981. Everywhere Don Brawley went and everything he did, he put his heart and soul into being his best for the family and community. He participated in Indian Guides, coached baseball, helped with making Cub Scout Pinewood Derby cars, and worked on a lot of science projects with the kids. While living in Alexandria, he was recognized as “Man of the Year” by both the Civitan Club and the Lion’s Club. In Lufkin, he served for several years on the St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church Finance Committee.

Don’s legacy is succeeded by Sue Brawley, his wife of 43 years, five children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandson.

Don’s memorial service will be on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Carroway Funeral Home in Lufkin from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The church service will be held at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. David M. Faulkner officiating.

Don Brawley will be remembered for a lot of things that have not been mentioned yet. He was loving, smart, and witty. He was a world traveler. He and Sue spent time in Africa, China, Europe, the Caribbean, the Galapagos Islands, and so many other destinations. Residents of Eldorado, Oklahoma will remember him as Skeeter, the boy who beat up the town bully behind the school gym. Because Don was very humble, I think he’d be happy to simply be remembered as a good man.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.