US Army Veteran George Brownell addresses the crowd at the Memorial Day ceremony at Riverside Cemetery in Fairhaven after the parade on 5/30/22. Neighb News file photo by Beth David.
By Beth David, Editor
George Brownell, 73, of Fairhaven, died tragically by his own hand on Thursday, 8/1/24. Mr. Brownell was a well known Vietnam era veteran who was active in many veterans organizations. He helped organize the Veterans Day Parade and the Memorial Day Parade, and often emceed the ceremonies at those events for many years.
Mr. Brownell was also a mechanic who owned and operated Auto Diagnostics in Fairhaven.
He was well known for helping many people who needed a hand up, especially veterans.
He will mostly be remembered as someone who helped veterans, and helped save the VFW in Fairhaven when it suffered from financial difficulties that almost resulted in its closure.
“Well, I don’t know what to say,” said Jeff Cardoza, Commander of the VFW in Fairhaven. “But George was a great guy. He worked with me from the beginning at the VFW. Many years ago we kept the VFW open when it was going to close. He did all the Fairhaven parades: Veterans and Memorial Day. He was always looking sharp.”
According to Fairhaven Veterans Services Officer Michael Jenney, Mr. Brownell served three years in the US Army and was honorably discharged.
“It’s a sad loss for all the town’s veterans,” said Mr. Jenney.
Several people on social media commented when the news broke.
“My good friend and awesome business associate,” wrote Jerry Bettencourt. “There was never a time he would not stop what he was doing and help me to solve a problem. He was a book of knowledge, and one of the smartest men that I know…I know he will find peace now, I also know that I will miss him for sure. God bless and rest my friend.”
Born in New Bedford, George was the son of the late George and Lillian (Lawton) Brownell, and lived most of his life in Fairhaven where he graduated from Fairhaven High School. He was an active member and Sergeant at Arms at the VFW Post 2892.
He is survived by his wife Cheryl A. (Viens) Brownell; step daughters, Allison Pike of Norwood and Hailey Stevens of New Bedford; two step granddaughters, Sophie and Claire Pike; George was the brother of the late Peter Brownell and Lauren Clark.
Private arrangements are by the Fairhaven Funeral Home, 117 Main St., Fairhaven. For memorial register please visit, www.hathawayfunerals. com. Anyone wishing to donate in Mr. Brownell’s name is encouraged to send a donation to the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 7, 19 Willis St., New Bedford, MA 02740.
If you are a veteran struggling emotionally, contact the Veterans Crisis Hotline, 988 and press 1, visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/; https://1tribefoundation.org; https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ suicide_prevention/
Locally, contact your city or town’s Veteran Services Officer. Every municipality in Massachusetts has a VSO who can connect you to a variety of resources and help you get the benefits you deserve as a Veteran. In Fairhaven, call Michael Jenney, 508-202-4603; in Acushnet call Brad Fish, 508-998-0207, bfish@acushnet.ma.us
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