The Reverend Dr. Kermit Lee Braswell

The Reverend Dr. Kermit Lee Braswell

The Reverend Dr. Kermit Lee Braswell entered into the eternal presence of his Lord and Savior on July 3, 2026 after a life devoted to God, the Church, and the family he treasured above all else.

Born on January 18, 1938, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Kermit was the only child of Kermit and Louise Braswell. From an early age, he exhibited a deep faith, a servant's heart, and a genuine love for people that would define his life's work.

On December 26, 1960, he married Alice Gray Braswell, the love of his life. Together they shared 65 years of marriage and ministry. In addition to his beloved wife, Alice, he is survived by his daughter, Lou Jennings and son-in-law, Jeff; his granddaughters, Courtney Powell and her husband, Cody, and Lindsey Jennings. Nothing delighted him more than spending time with his family, celebrating their accomplishments, and surrounding them with his love, wisdom, and encouragement.

Kermit graduated from William R. Davie High School in Roanoke Rapids before earning his bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He answered God's call to ordained ministry by attending and graduating from Duke Divinity School. In recognition of his distinguished service to the Church, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree by Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

During his ministry, Kermit faithfully served the following United Methodist churches: Verona, Gillburg, Knightdale, Fremont, Westover, Queen Street and Hayes Barton.

In addition to his pastoral appointments, Kermit served the Conference as Administrative Assistant to two bishops and as District Superintendent of the Elizabeth City and Raleigh Districts. He also served as a Trustee of the Methodist Home for Children and NC Wesleyan University.

Kermit also served the United Methodist Church as a Jurisdictional and General Conference delegate for many years and as a member of the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits (Wespath) and as a member of the General Council on Finance and Administration.

Throughout his ministry, he was respected for his steady leadership, pastoral care, thoughtful counsel, and commitment to the mission of The United Methodist Church.

After 43 years of faithful service, Kermit remained deeply connected to the Church he loved and continued to encourage clergy and lay leaders through his prayers, wisdom, and faithful presence. It was also his honor to serve as Pastor Emeritus at Hayes Barton UMC during retirement.

In 2019, Kermit and Alice made their home at Waltonwood Retirement Community, where they formed many treasured friendships. Throughout his life, Kermit found joy in traveling, sharing good meals with family and friends, and never passed up an opportunity to enjoy a bowl of ice cream!

Above all, Kermit was a devoted husband, father, Papa, pastor, and friend. His unwavering faith in Jesus Christ guided every aspect of his life and ministry. His legacy of faithful service will continue to bless all who knew him. It is easy to find ministers and laypersons throughout the NC conference who have a "Kermit story" to share.

A Celebration of Life and Resurrection will be held at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Rd, Raleigh, NC on July 7 at 2:00 pm. A reception in the fellowship hall of the church will follow the service.

Memorial gifts may be given to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church.