John Brady Obituary

John Blake Brady

Sep 11, 1929 - May 7, 2025

John Blake Brady of Winston-Salem, NC, passed away peacefully, at the age of 95, on May 7, 2025, surrounded by his daughters. John was born on September 11, 1929, in Ramseur, NC, the son of Swanna Ward and Colon Emmit Brady. John's family moved to Rural Hall, NC, in 1939 when his father founded Brady Furniture Company, where John would later spend his career.

After graduating from Oak Ridge Military Academy, John served in the US Navy on an aircraft carrier in San Diego, CA. He then moved to Raleigh, NC, to attend NC State, where he graduated in 1953 with a degree in Furniture Manufacturing and Management and became a lifelong Wolfpack fan. During this time, he was set up on a blind date with Meredith student, Elizabeth (Liz) Hamrick. Liz and John were married in 1954 and settled in Winston-Salem, where they raised their three daughters on Paddington Lane among neighbors who became like family, friendships that continue through generations.

John's caring nature and exceptional character were apparent throughout his life. After his father's sudden passing in 1977, he faithfully looked after his mother, visiting her daily. It was a quiet example of his deep sense of responsibility and care. His care for those he loved was never more evident than in the years following Liz's stroke in 2012. For more than four years, he tended to her needs with quiet strength and unwavering love. He lived out the promise of "for better or for worse" in every sense. The gentleness and respect he extended to residents and staff members at Arbor Acres was remarkable. His commitment during those years left a lasting impression on his family and anyone who witnessed it.

John also gave generously of his time. He was active in many organizations, but his most rewarding work was with The Salvation Army. Whether ringing bells or counting kettle money with friends, he found purpose in supporting the mission and those it served.

John never met a stranger. He had a gift for finding common ground, asking where you were from, who you knew, and how your paths might overlap. He maintained lifelong friendships across many circles: NC State, his golf foursome at Forsyth Country Club, Centenary United Methodist Church, Salvation Army, and Arbor Acres. In recent years, he found great joy in the countless trips he made to Mabe's Berry Farm in Walnut Cove. John loved his rides through the country and seeing the Mabe family who became very dear to him. When strawberry season arrived, you could find John delivering a car full to many grateful friends and family, or even a lucky passerby whom he had just met. Along with a love for strawberries, John had an insatiable sweet tooth, never turning down a dessert. He would often be heard coming by the jingle of change and crinkle of candy wrappers in his pockets. John also had a keen sense of humor, loved hearing or telling a joke, and forever ribbed his sons-in-law when UNC did not win. More than anything, John was known for his warmth and generosity.

John is survived by his three daughters, Lynn Womble (Bob) of Raleigh, Beth Duckett (Chuck) and Mary Blake White (Ernie) of Winston-Salem; grandchildren, Robert Womble (Katherine), Margaret Wells (John), Betsy Harris (Robby), John Duckett (Julia), Carolyn Duckett, Margaret White, Lizzie Gaiennie (Jack), Mary Catherine White; and ten great-grandchildren. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Liz; his parents; and his sisters, Virginia Terry, Betty Campbell, and Ann Lingerfelt.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 12, at Centenary United Methodist Church, with a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Centenary United Methodist Church, PO Box 658, Winston-Salem, NC, 27102; Salvation Army, PO Box 1205, Winston-Salem, NC, 27102; Arbor Acres, Resident Assistance Fund, 1240 Arbor Rd., Winston-Salem, NC, 27104; or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.

Salem Funeral & Cremation Service

120 S. Main St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101