TOPSAIL BEACH — Dr. Howard McCoy Braxton, Jr., 84, of Topsail Beach, passed away Sunday, May 4, 2025.
He was born December 9, 1940, in Scotland Neck, NC.
He attended Guilford College in Greensboro, NC to receive his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1963. He received his master’s degree in physical education from Appalachian State University in 1966. In 1975, Howard earned his doctorate degree in education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, NC. He spent 36 years as a teacher and principal mostly in the Greensboro City Schools until his retirement in 1996.
Howard retired to Topsail beach where he served on the Town Board for 4 years and 16 years as Mayor of the town of Topsail Beach. He also served as a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary for many years. He also served on the Kiwanis board and worked with Sea Turtle program for over 20 years and chaired Autumn with Topsail for 3 years.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Patsy Mallard Braxton; son, Bob Braxton and wife Deanna; grandchildren, McCoy Braxton, Claire Elizabeth Braxton and Lee Scott.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the choice of: Emma Anderson memorial Chapel, Topsail Beach, NC or Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Center 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.
