Birth Date: 08/28/1944
Deceased Date: 03/09/2024
In loving memory of Jimmy George “Tony” Braswell, who, at the age of 79, passed away on the 9th of March, 2024, in Raleigh, NC. Born on the 28th of August, 1944, Tony lived a life characterized by service to his country, engagement in local entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.
Tony Braswell was a patriot and Vietnam Veteran, serving in the United States Army from 1964 to 1967, a commitment that honored and shaped his subsequent endeavors. In the realm of business, he distinguished himself as the Vice President of Rain & Hail Insurance, Inc. Together with his wife Nobie, Tony was instrumental in cultivating a legacy of local businesses, including Pine Level Florist, Holt Lake Gas & Grill, and Legends Real Estate and Investments.
Tony was a man of many talents and interests, but his most enduring quality was his gift of gab. He enjoyed connecting with those he represented to discuss matters of significant importance and local interest over lunch or in person. In his personal life he enjoyed coaching and spent many years volunteering with Pine Level Parks and Recreation. He also enjoyed serving as an umpire and referee for various youth leagues in the area where his knowledge of the rules was second to none.
Another important piece of his personal life was his time spent on the radio airwaves being known as “DJ TJ Ryan.” Tony spent many years working with local radio stations, regional radio stations, and hosting events playing Carolina Beach Music. He enjoyed spending his free time with his wife at the coastal communities of Indian Beach, North Carolina and Cherry Grove, South Carolina where fishing, boating, and unwinding with friends was always a good time. He had a long list of interests throughout his life such as attending NASCAR races, LIV and PGA Tour golf events with his sons and friends. He was an extraordinary chef and enjoyed gathering family and friends to share in his talent.
Reflecting a life dedicated to public service, Tony’s tenure on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners (2004-2016, 2018-2024, serving as Vice Chairman 2012-2014, and Chairman 2014-2016), Mayor of Pine Level (1999-2003), Pine Level Town Commissioner (1979-1981, 1998-1999) and his chairmanship at the North Carolina Veterans Affairs Commission were hallmarks of his desire to make a tangible difference in his community. Tony’s devotion to public service was evidenced by his roles across various community organizations and boards, enriching the lives of those around him. Past leadership roles included serving as Post Commander for the Pine Level American Legion Post #405, Assistant Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop #63, Vice Chairman for the Johnston Health Board of Commissioners.
Other proud board memberships and associations included the Johnston County Planning Board, Johnston County Social Service Board, North Carolina Child Fatality Task Force, Residential Subdivision Paving Committee, Johnston County Health Board, Highway 70 Corridor Commission, Veterans Services Advisory Board, Johnston County Sports Council, Pine Level United Methodist Church, Pine Level Lions Club, Pine Level VFW, Selma Masonic Lodge #320, Johnston County Chapter of DAV, Johnston County Agri-Business Council and a Honorary Member of the Pine Level Fire Department.
Renowned for his dedication to family, Tony is survived by his wife, Nobie Braswell, his children Khloe Braswell, Aidan Braswell, Teresa Jaap and husband Chip, Dean Murphy and sons of Judy Braswell, Chris Braswell, Todd Braswell, and Ryan Braswell. In addition are his siblings Bobby Braswell with wife Jenny, Billie Braswell with wife Patsy, sister Joan Wood and the late Chester, and Frances Creech with husband Jan. Tony is survived by his grandchildren Tawni and husband Kyle Clodfelter, Taylor Small, Tiana Small, Daniel Murphy, Adam Murphy, Lena Braswell, Luka Braswell and great grandchild Genevieve Clodfelter. In addition, he is survived by many nieces and nephews who all cherished their “Uncle Tony.” Preceding Tony in death were his parents, Inez and Edmund Braswell, and sisters Jean Batten and Shirley Braswell Parker.
A Service of Remembrance to celebrate the life of Mr. Jimmy George “Tony” Braswell is to be held on the March 22, 2024, at the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, starting at 5 pm. The family welcomes all those touched by his life to attend. In place of flowers, Tony’s family requests charitable donations be made to the Johnston Community College Annual Fund, PO BOX 2350, Smithfield, NC 27577 or the Kinston NC Veterans Home, 2150 Hull Road Kinston, NC 28504, honoring his enduring spirit of community support and beneficence.
The family would like to invite the community to celebrate the life and times of Tony at the Johnston County Agricultural Center, 2736 NC Highway 210, Smithfield, NC 27577 from 6pm to 10pm following the memorial service. Food, drinks and music will be served while we share and swap stories about his life.
Parrish Funeral Home in Selma, NC, is in charge of arrangements, ensuring that Tony’s service is conducted with the dignity and respect his life’s work so richly deserves. His journey on this earth is complete, but the echoes of Jimmy George “Tony” Braswell’s contributions will reverberate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him for many years to come.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at parrishfh.com
