PEMBROKE – Roland P. Brasley, 87, of Pembroke, passed away on February 25, 2025, in the care of the Granite VNA Hospice House. The family is deeply grateful for the support they received from the hospice team, which allowed Roland to remain in the home where he was raised until one week prior to his passing.
Born in Concord, Roland was the son of the late Philip and Blanche (Gagnon) Brasley. A lifelong resident of Suncook, Roland was employed as a stonecutter for Swanson's Granite prior to his retirement. He spent the majority of his career working in a granite quarry and was never one to shy away from hard work. Roland was also a proud veteran of the United States Army and often shared stories of his time served with family and friends. He was a past member of the VFW Post 2860 in Suncook.
Roland was a valued member of his community, spending countless summers tending to his beloved garden. His generosity and warm spirit earned him the respect from the children in the neighborhood. One of his most treasured memories was turning his garden into a skating rink for the neighborhood kids, a gesture that left a lasting impression on all who experienced it.
In retirement, Roland and his wife embraced many years of camping and traveling, making new friends along the way. They spent winters in Florida and summers in Maine, often bringing their grandchildren with them to share in these joyful experiences. When they weren't traveling, Roland enjoyed woodworking and loved to share his creations with anyone who showed interest.
Roland's kindness, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
Roland was predeceased by his siblings: Rene Brasley, Irene Daneault, Dora Martel, Rita Hamel, Lucien Brasley, Leo Brasley, Connie Towle, William Brasley, Donald Brasley, Jean Dow, Gerard Brasley, and Helen Cote.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Jeannette (Hamel) Brasley; three children: Paul Brasley and his wife, Melissa, of Concord, Richard Brasley of California, and Luanne Blais and her husband, David, of Pembroke. He is also survived by his grandson, Michael Blais of Pembroke; granddaughter, Melinda Avery and her husband, Daniel, of Maine; and great-grandchildren, Griffin and Robin Avery, who affectionately knew him as "Happy."
At the request of the family, burial at the NH State Veterans Cemetery will take place in the spring. Assisting the family with arrangements is The Roan Family Funeral Home of Pembroke. To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit www.roanfamilyfuneral.com