1951 – 2017

WINDHAM — Dennis Scott Brackley, of New Gloucester passed away Friday, Jan. 13.

How does one begin to describe Dennis Brackley?

Papa, Daddyo, Ole Hoss, Big Brother Denny, Homa, Catfish, Uncle Jesse, Coach and Santa are just a few of the names he answered to.

Born Feb. 5, 1951, in Farmington, Dennis was one of five children born to Ruby (Pillsbury) Brackley Faunce and the late Glenn Foster Brackley. He was an unusually active boy who could often be found in a barn loft or atop the highest of trees. At an early age, his family moved to Gray and the area became his lifelong home. He graduated from Gray-New Gloucester High School in 1969 and soon enlisted into the U.S. Army through the buddy system with classmates Ken Mongeau and Duane Ross. He worked as a combat engineer and MP, serving with lifelong friends and Army brothers Eric Baade, Wayne Williams and Duane Ross. After one and a half tours in Vietnam, he returned home a proud, but wounded, combat veteran, and continued his service as an active member of the New Gloucester AMVETS and Gray American Legion, logging in countless hours as a volunteer.

Dennis was tough and rumored to have had nine lives! He survived two lightning strikes during his days climbing towers and lived to tell the tale of being thrown clear out of his shoes after being hit by a car in Portland. He also suffered a horrific motorcycle accident in the 90s leaving him with severe brain trauma. Needless to say, Dennis was a survivor.

With a fashion sense all his own, his large denim overalls, bubba keg of ice water, mini-van/taxi cab and handy dandy toothpick accessory, he was a familiar sight around town. He spent countless hours driving family and friends to and from. He enjoyed sports, fishing, cribbage, Miller 64, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks and going to the races. He loved music and movies, especially “chick flicks” starring Sandra Bullock.

Friends and family describe Dennis as a “gentle giant.” He was kind, humble and loyal; always ready with a big hug and kiss for those he cherished.

He was a beloved son, brother, friend, cousin and uncle. The greatest role for Dennis was being a father to his girls and a Papa to his grandchildren. Alexa and Gavin were the loves of his life. He never held back from saying “I love you” and his bright personality and generosity will be missed.

Survived by his mother, Ruby (Pillsbury) Brackley Faunce; daughters Kasandra Brackley and Katelyn Brackley; their mother, Lucinda Maloney Brackley; and granddaughter, Alexa Lee; daughter, Vanessa Bentley; and granddaughter, Adelaine Rae; brothers, Larry Brackley and wife, Linda, Wayne Brackley and wife, Barbara; sisters, Susan Lowberg and husband, Arthur, Vicki Moody and husband, Stephen; and many nieces, nephews, family and dear friends.

Condolences may be expressed www.wilsonfhllc.com.