Jean Ann (Braley) Nickerson

Jean Ann (Braley) Nickerson was born on April 4, 1938, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to Alfred R. M. Braley and M. Cecile G. (Fourner) Braley. The eldest of four siblings, she was raised in Acushnet, where she attended St. Francis Xavier Grammar School and later graduated from Fairhaven High School. She went on to study at the Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School and began her professional life working for The Christian Brothers, a nonprofit organization.

Jean possessed a deeply creative and entrepreneurial spirit. Over the years, she founded and operated three successful retail shops: The Candle Studio and The Village Peddler in Acushnet, and The Calico Shop in Harwich Port. Her artistry extended beyond her businesses—she taught decoupage and lampshade-making through the Harwich Adult Education Center, and spent countless hours restoring and refinishing furniture she sourced locally, often working from the basement of her home. By day, she worked as a dental assistant for Drs. Tomasian in Harwich. Evenings were often spent outdoors, tending to her yard alongside her children or exploring the winding back roads of Cape Cod, dreaming of the next possibility.

Jean was, above all, a woman of deep love and warmth. She adored her family and often called her children, and later her grandchildren, her “treasures.” She had a natural gift for connecting with others—quick to laugh, eager to listen, and especially drawn to the joy of young children. She was a fierce and devoted advocate for her son Paul, and her unwavering dedication profoundly shaped his life.

Later in life, Jean met and married the love of her life, Joshua (“Jan”) Nickerson. Together, they shared nearly twenty years filled with companionship, laughter, and cherished family traditions. Holidays and summers were spent surrounded by Jean’s children and grandchildren, creating a home rich with connection and joy. Jan, affectionately known as “Papi,” often said he was never happier than when he was with Jean and her family. Though circumstances beyond their control altered the course of their later years, the bond they shared remained a defining and enduring love in both of their lives. Jan passed away in 2023 and remains dearly missed.

In her final chapter, Jean was lovingly cared for by her family, including her daughter, with whom she lived. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers, especially Ana L., whose kindness, compassion, and friendship brought comfort and joy—she will never be forgotten. The family also wishes to thank Jean’s sister, Nancy, for a deeply meaningful phone call near the end of Jean’s life, offering love and encouragement that meant so much.

Jean Ann was a remarkable woman who faced life’s challenges with resilience, grace, and an open heart. She leaves behind her children, Dr. Monica (Nick) Westley, Jonathan (Heather Hoffman) Shiel, and Paul Shiel Jr.; her beloved grandchildren, Allison and Aidan Westley; her cherished niece, Christine (Mark) Carvalho; her sister, Nancy Braley; and her brother, Leo Braley. She was predeceased by her brother Alfred.

“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” Jean created a lifetime of love. While she will be deeply missed, her family is forever grateful for the love she gave so freely.

A private Celebration of Life will be held on May 23. Reach out to [email protected] for details. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Jean’s name to NAMI, https://donate.nami.org/give/197406/