Whately, MA – Brenda Carr, 62, of Whately, passed away on Saturday July 25, 2026, surrounded by her family at Baystate Medical Center. She was born in Greenfield, MA on October 14, 1963, to Joel and Cecile (Demarais) Carr.
Brenda graduated from Hampshire Regional and went on to build a 43-year career as a graphic designer at Chartpak in Leeds. During her time there, she formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of her colleagues as a dedicated and valued supervisor.
Brenda met and fell in love with Donald Braman, and the two were married on May 8, 1998, in Rhode Island. They shared 28 wonderful years together, enjoying travel-especially cruises-and making cherished memories on bus trips to Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Florida. Brenda found joy in beautiful flowers, the ocean, and her collections of snowmen and cows. She especially loved the holidays, with Christmas holding a special place in her heart. She always enjoyed the shopping excursions with her sister, Vickie, and cherished the quality time she spent with her husband. Brenda and Donald were nearly always together, sharing life side by side. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Donald Braman of Whately, her parents, Joel and Cecile Carr of Goshen, her stepdaughter, Amy Braman of Easthampton, her sister Vickie Barlow and her husband Mike of Conway, several aunts, uncles, cousins and step grandchildren, Kyle Kirkland of Westfield, and Skylar Kirkland of Greenfield.
Calling hours will be Friday August 14, 2026, from 10AM – 12PM at the DROZDAL FUNERAL HOME OF NORTHAMPTON, followed by a Prayer Service at 12 PM. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
A small reception will be held immediately after at the South Deerfield Polish Club, South Deerfield, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Baystate Health Foundation Heart & Vascular, 280 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA 01199.
For more information or to leave the family a personal condolence, please visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com.
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