Chester C. Braham

Chester Braham was born September 21, 1939, to Charles (John) Braham and Rita Cole in Saint Mary's parish in Jamaica. He was one of four children and was affectionately known for his passion for learning and was an avid reader.

Chester was a very bright and rambunctious boy. Always conscious of his health, as a teenager he trained as an amateur body builder. In time, Chester realized that bodily training was "only beneficial for a little" and he sought to fulfill himself spiritually.

In his teen years he was contacted by Jehovah's Witnesses and was introduced to Samuel Simpson, who became a close friend for many decades. From this friendship, he gained not only a friend but a spiritual brother. He dedicated his life to Jehovah and was baptized on July 12, 1958 when he was 18 years old.

Chester spent most of his youth devoting himself to his studies and aspired to move abroad to further his education. He moved to the United States and began studying at a community college in NY. He transferred to Howard University, where he earned his accounting degree and graduated Summa cum laude in 1966. Shortly afterwards, he began his career as an accountant. He served in the capacity of an accountant for several decades in the government before retiring. He didn't limit his knack for numbers solely to secular pursuits. He also used his abilities to assist with accounting at assemblies and conventions of Jehovah's Witnesses. He viewed this as part of his sacred service and did so for many years.

In between his studies he met the love of his life Zeophia Majette, and they wed on June 9, 1973. From this union came two boys and two girls - in that order.

As a father he was an excellent provider and as a spiritual head he took a strong lead. He loved his family and sought to protect them from the snares of this world. His eyes would gleam whenever he spoke about his children, especially his girls, who stayed close to him all their lives.

Chester was also a deep well of biblical knowledge. He was generous with his wisdom to those who would listen. Those spiritual conversations were always coupled with his wit and humor. Whenever he encountered someone close to him, he would lean in and greet them with a familiar cheeky saying. His laugh was so boisterous, it was like a special invitation to join in with him! His zest for life breathed air into any sterile room.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents, his oldest brother Teddy, and his wife, Zeophia. He is survived by his children: Joshua, Jonathan, Sarah and Rachel Braham, his sister Ventris (a.k.a., Twitsie), his brother Glen, and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a large spiritual family.