John William Brauer

John was born September 14, 1944, in Warrenton, North Carolina to Walter William Brauer and Marie Anna Elizabeth Holtzman Brauer.

John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from North Carolina State University in 1967 and earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Utah in 1975.

John honorably served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1974, attaining the rank of Captain. A Vietnam War veteran and graduate of the Army Airborne School, he served with the United States Army Special Forces and earned numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge. John’s service reflected a distinguished commitment to his country.

Following his military service, John returned to the Fort Bragg area where he met Jean Winifred Blackmon. John and Jean were married on September 9, 1989 and shared nearly 35 years of marriage until Jean’s passing in 2024.

John built his professional career in technology with Computer Sciences Corporation where he worked as a programmer and software developer until his retirement.

Passionate about travel, John took great pleasure in planning trips and exploring destinations around the world with Jean and their niece, Lisa. He had a great appreciation for museums, classical music, and opera. John was an avid reader with a particular fondness for science fiction. John enjoyed movies as well; in their later years, he and Jean especially enjoyed watching Hallmark and Turner Classic Movies together.

A proud NC State alumnus and devoted Wolfpack fan, John held season tickets to football games and loved attending and cheering on the Pack. His nieces and nephews were delighted when they were able to join Uncle Johnny at Carter-Finley Stadium.

Another important part of both John’s and Jean’s lives was their membership at Millbrook United Methodist Church in Raleigh. They enjoyed many years of fellowship and worship participation.

In 2024, John made Waltonwood his home. There, he formed special friendships in the community that brought him companionship in a new chapter of his life. These relationships meant a great deal to John and his family.

Above all, John was a devoted husband, brother, uncle and friend. A lifelong learner with a remarkable breadth of knowledge, John was endlessly curious and took great pleasure in learning and sharing his knowledge with others. He will be remembered for his devotion to those he loved, his keen mind, and his enthusiasm for the many things that brought him joy.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean Winifred Blackmon-Brauer; his parents, Walter William Brauer and Marie Anna Elizabeth Holtzman Brauer; his sisters, Cornelia Newton and Emma Graham; and his brother, Adolf Brauer. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family members.

John’s family is deeply grateful to the caregivers of Homewatch for the compassionate care, kindness, and companionship they provided to him. Their dedication and support were a great comfort to John and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Millbrook United Methodist Church.

A Celebration of Life with military honors will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 2:00pm at the Mausoleum Chapel at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC. Pastor Christy Dye of Millbrook United Methodist Church will officiate.