Private

John Joseph "Jack" Braddish Jr., born on December 17, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, peacefully left this world, leaving behind a rich tapestry of cherished memories. As the eldest of three children born to Mary and John Braddish, Jack grew up in Long Beach where he cultivated enduring connections that profoundly shaped the course of his life. After Long Beach High School, Jack attended Stanton Military Academy, and then went on to continue his education at Ithaca College. It was there that he not only excelled in football but also met his future wife, Mary Lou McCullough. Eventually settling in West Islip, NY, with his wife, affectionately known as Mikki, Jack and Mikki welcomed four children into their lives – Kevin, Keith, Rebecca, and Erin. Jack began his professional career as a driver education teacher in West Islip, eventually taking on the additional roles of physical education teacher and head football coach. In his first year as head coach he led the team to a league title. He would go on to win four more league titles and a conference title in his 11 years as head coach. In 1980 Jack was appointed Athletic Director of the West Islip School District, a position he held until his retirement in 1996.

All would undoubtedly agree that his tenure as the head football coach at West Islip High School provided him the most joy and the ability to shape the lives of his players. As recently as this past fall Jack could be seen on the sidelines at West Islip football games. Beyond the gridiron, he mentored countless players, forging bonds that endured long after his retirement. Jack's legacy, characterized by his commitment to excellence, extended beyond the field, leaving an indelible mark on the West Islip community. In addition to his immediate family, Jack is survived by his cherished sister, Joanne, his brother, Kevin, and Kevin's wife, Eileen. His memory will forever resonate in the hearts of those privileged to have known and loved him. Jack leaves behind his four devoted children and their spouses: Kevin and Basia, Keith and Michelle, Becca and Shaun, and Erin and Peter. His legacy also lives on through his beloved 12 grandchildren – Ian, Conor, Kevin, Isabella, Logan, Anna, Taylor, Kyle, Kyra, Luke, Sarah, and Brendan – along with his adored great-grandson, Miles. Friends and well-wishers are invited to pay their respects at Chapey's Funeral Home on Friday, January 5, from 3 to 5 PM and then again from 7 to 9 PM. A mass celebrating Jack's life will be held on Saturday morning, January 6, at 9 AM at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Bay Shore. Jack's journey may have come to an end, but the impact of his warm spirit and enduring legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.

Memorial donations may be made to WIAHOF for a scholarship fund in Jack’s name. Donations may be mailed to the following address: West Islip High School- Attention George Botsch, 1 Lions Path, West Islip, NY 11795. Checks can be made payable to: WIAHOF 1 Lions Path West Islip, NY 11795 ATTN: George Bostch Memo: Jack Braddish Scholarship