Elaine (Braselton) Fisher

Obituary lovingly prepared by the family.

Elaine Braselton Fisher, a former resident of Covington, passed away on August 15, 2023. Just like the iconic New Year's baby, Elaine was born early in the morning on New Year's Day, January 1, 1935. She was the cherished daughter of Lucille Hudson Braselton and Brazzie B. Braselton.

Her childhood unfolded in Columbus, Georgia, where her father, Brazzie, was a deliveryman for Kinnett's Dairy. In time, driven by ambition and the need for entrepreneurship, Brazzie established a quaint country grocery store in Renfroe, Georgia. It was here that Elaine and her family occupied the residence just above the store.

In 1953, Elaine, alongside her dear friend Judy Greer, graduated from a close-knit class of just nine students. They fondly joked about being in the top ten of their class. Beyond their playful remarks, Elaine's dedication to her studies was evident. She earned recognition in the "Voice of Democracy" contest organized by the VFW. This honor led her to a special visit to Washington, DC, where she had the opportunity to meet notable politicians of her time. Her educational path culminated in 1956 when she graduated from the Emory University’s Crawford W. Long School of Nursing in Atlanta, becoming a registered nurse.

During the day, the nurses of Crawford Long and the engineers from Georgia Tech were irresistibly drawn to each other. It was in this setting that she encountered her lifelong love, William (Bill) Fisher, Jr. Bill, a proud 1956 Chemical Engineering graduate from Georgia Tech, who would become her steadfast companion. Together, they shared a journey of 59 years, during which they lovingly raised their two children, Cheryl and Bill III.

Over those almost six decades, Elaine nurtured diverse passions. She was a Girl Scout leader, a den mother, a Director of MYF, and an amateur artist, showcasing her talent in local exhibitions. She also actively participated in Sunday school classes and church groups. Of all the congregations she was a part of, the First United Methodist Church of Covington held an unparalleled space in her heart.

Bill's career with Hercules, Inc. led him and Elaine on a journey through numerous locations, ranging from Brunswick, Georgia, to Covington, Virginia, twice in Covington, Georgia, and even as far as Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was in Covington, Georgia, however, where they truly felt at home. Throughout these travels, Elaine not only practiced nursing but also attended to the minor injuries of neighborhood children. She stood by Bill's side, supporting him as he climbed the corporate ladder at the company.

Whether residing in a split-level house in Appalachia or a high-rise near Ipanema Beach, Elaine consistently radiated southern charm. Her welcoming heart and genuine smile were gifts to all who encountered her.

In 1981, the couple settled back in Covington, Georgia. Bill entered retirement in 1995, and together, they relished the early years of this phase, indulging in travels, trips to Disney World, and cherishing moments with their grandchildren. This blissful period lasted until Bill's passing in 2016. The subsequent years for Elaine were challenging as she bravely battled Alzheimer's.

Elaine would want it known that the many dedicated workers who assisted her during these times felt like family. Among them, Sonia McLeod, a CNA originally from London, was truly remarkable. For the final seven years of Elaine's life, Sonia, sometimes dedicating over 12 hours a day, provided cared for Elaine with both tenderness and dedication as if she was her own “Mum”.

Elaine leaves behind her cherished family: her two children, Cheryl Fisher Custer and her husband Bill of Atlanta, William J. Fisher, III, and his wife, Twila of Lawrenceville. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Lauren Fisher Omalin, Victoria Elaine Custer, Darien Fisher Wallace, Sydney Darlene Fisher, and William James Fisher, IV. Recently, the family joyfully welcomed two great-grandchildren, Onyx Austin Omalin, son of Lauren, and Violet Orion Wallace, daughter of Darien. Elaine's niece, Wendi Singletary Pirkle, and her spouse, Wes, also remain as a testament to her legacy.

A memorial service in honor of Elaine is scheduled for 2 o'clock on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home in Covington, Georgia. Reverend Ernie Pirkle will lead the ceremony. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories. While there won't be a graveside service, Elaine will find her final resting place beside her beloved husband, Bill, at St Andrews Cemetery in Darien, Georgia. The family will receive friends from 1:00pm until 2:00pm at the funeral home prior to the service.

The arrangements are under the thoughtful care of J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home, located at 2157 East Street, SE, Covington, GA 30014. The family kindly suggests that, in place of flowers, that friends consider a gift in Elaine's memory to Emory’s Nursing programs at www.nursing.emory.edu. For those who wish, a guest book is available for signing online at www.HarwellFuneralHome.com.

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