Paul Leroy Braucht, 92, of Chestertown, MD passed away peacefully at home on Friday December 26, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Paul was born on December 31, 1932 in Coburn, PA, a son of the late Norman W. and Marian (Shipe) Braucht.  He was raised in Central Pennsylvania and graduated from East Penns Valley High School in 1952.  After high school he served in the United States Army serving both domestically and abroad in Germany.  After his honorable discharge from the Army, Paul went to work as a lineman in Chestertown. He would retire from Delmarva Power with over 30 years of service in the early 1990's.

Paul met his wife Ruth Byron Braucht, after moving to Chestertown in 1955. Paul first saw "Ruthie" as he called her, in front of her home, sweeping, and told family members that it was love at first sight. They were married the following year. Paul and Ruthie were married for 60 years and enjoyed their life together until her passing in 2017. After her passing, Paul married his second wife Barbara Shaffer Braucht and moved back to Pennsylvania for several years. Paul and Barbara enjoyed spending time with family, attending church activities, and traveling. Barbara passed away in April 2021 and Paul moved back to Chestertown in 2023.

Paul was dedicated to serving his community.  He was a life member of the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company where he volunteered for over 50 years. He was also a member of the American Legion in Millheim, PA and the Susquehanna Valley Church of Christ. He enjoyed being outside, gardening, working around the house, and fishing.  He passed those passions on to his family. Paul loved spending time with his family and friends.

Along with his parents, Paul is preceded in death by his first wife Ruth Byron Braucht, second wife Barbara Shaffer Braucht, daughter Nancy Teal and siblings David Braucht, William Braucht, George Braucht, and Roberta Hubert. He is also preceded in death by his nephew Michael Braucht (Shari) and his great-great grandson Louka Melson.

Paul is survived by granddaughters Jennifer Knapp and Rebekah Wallace, great-grandchildren Ashley Knapp (Michael), Phillip Wallace Jr., Zachary (Francesca) Knapp, Logan (Josh) Melson, Alayni Wallace, and great-great grandchildren Michael Plummer Jr., Jaxxon Melson, Madilynn Melson, and Ella Plummer. He is also survived by his nephews Dan (Heidi) Braucht, Andrew Braucht, and David (Connie) Braucht; his nieces Cindy and Darlene, sister-in-law, Candace (David) Braucht, as well as many great nieces, nephews, and cousins that were very dear to him. He is also survived by Barbara's children Wesley (Kathleen) Shaffer, Darren (Kelly) Shaffer, Lance (Kelly) Shaffer, Dina Shaffer, Todd (Susan) Shaffer.

A viewing will be held on Friday January 9, 2026 from 11 to 12 PM in the Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech, 118 W. Cross St. Galena, MD, where a funeral service will follow at 12 PM.  Burial will follow in Chester Cemetery, Chestertown, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul's memory can be offered to the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, PO Box 296 Chestertown, MD 21620