Paul Emerson Brewer

Paul Emerson Brewer, 82, passed away at home on October 23, 2025, after a lengthy battle with prostate cancer. In discussion with his hospice nurse there was a suggestion to think about his legacy and Paul said that what was important to him is that “I mattered and I made a difference”.

Paul did make a difference in the lives of many Baltimore County students and their families as a 34 year educator with BCPS. He served as a social studies teacher, counselor, crisis counselor, and grade level coordinator at Stemmer's Run, Deep Creek, General John Stricker Middle Schools; the Eastwood Center; and Patapsco, Chesapeake and Milford Mills High Schools.

Paul was born on December 6, 1942 to Emerson and Evelyn (Barrett) Brewer, in Kittaning, PA. After his father returned from World War II, the family eventually settled on a farm in Schenley, PA. He graduated from Leechburg High School in 1961 and would attend Clarion State Teacher's College graduating in 1965 with a BS degree. He would then start his career in Baltimore County, earning his MEd from Loyola College (Baltimore). He completed coursework at University of Maryland College Park.

Despite not being able to swim, Paul fell in love with boating life, living on his wooden boat for many years before his second marriage. His woodworking skills would serve him well and it remained a hobby he would continue to engage in well into his 80's. He made most of the furniture in his home and countless gifts for family and friend. As a Bob Ross devotee, he often lost himself creating art with “happy little trees” and “happy little clouds”. He also loved photography and creating pen and ink drawings. For many years he maintained his flying license. He loved his beloved Logan, a black Lab, and Quinn, his little beagle, survives him.

Paul is survived by his wife, Dian Breichner Brewer of Parkville, MD; sister Linda Harding and her husband Dennis of Brookville, PA; step sister Irene McKinkey and her husband Mark of Laconner, WA; step brother Richard Sappe and his wife Nora of Vandergrift, PA; brother-in-law William Breichner and his wife Nancy of Westminster, MD; sister-in-law Patricia

Breichner of Arlington, VA; and mother-in-law Barbara Breichner of Wiliamsport, MD. He is also survived by nieces Tonya Harding Woodel and Kenneth Woodel and their son Cole of Brookville, PA; Tina Harding and her daughter Lila of Brookville, PA; Laura Marcus and her husband David and their children Evangeline, Luke, John, Sam, and Nate of Broadlands, VA; Emily Breichner of Baltimore, MD; Jennifer Breichner of Baltimore, MD; and Lindsey Breichner of Westminster, MD. His nephew Jason Breichner and his wife Zoe of Owings Mills, MD also survive him. He is also survived by cousins who live in many areas of the country but are united by the Brewer legacy.

In addition to his parents, Paul was predeceased by his brother, Gary Brian Brewer and step mother, Mary Sappe Brewer. He was predeceased by many aunts, uncles, and cousins and he was particularly close to his aunt, Marjorie Tonks, who lived with his family during her formative years and who he considered to be a sister. He was also predeceased by an infant daughter from a previous marriage to Jo Nemith.

Although many friends and neighbors survive him, he was very close to Kenneth Querio a high school and college friend with whom he stayed in contact and the PALS of Leechburg High School Class of 1961. Michael and Francis Wise of Port Orange, FL, long time friends, also survive him.

Special thanks to the medical professionals who have supported him during a near 18 year battle with prostate cancer, particularly Chesapeake Urology and his Gilchrist hospice team members Susy, Renee, and Earl. Everyone at Gilchrist Hospice provided such comfort to Paul and Dian that simply can't be put into words.

A friend said that it didn't surprise him that, at Paul's insistence, there will be no viewing or service, as Paul was a private person. Internment at Holly Hills Memorial Gardens will be private. If chosen, donations in his memory can be made to Gilchrist Hospice, Attn: Philanthropy Division, 11311 McCormick Rd, Suite 350, Hunt Valley, MD 21031 or Zero Out Prostate Cancer, 201 N. Union St., Mailbox 110, Alexandria, VA, 22314.