Thomas M. Brayton ’65

Tom died May 17, 2025, in Darien, Conn., where he lived for many years with his wife of 56 years, Friede, sister of classmate John Bliss.

Tom grew up in upstate New York, the son of Dorothy and Haswell Brayton ’35. Tom came to Princeton from Andover. He was a starting forward on the soccer team, a classics major, and a member of Cottage Club. He roomed with Pierre LaTour and Phil Coviello.

Tom’s career after graduation took him from teaching and coaching to public relations, on to the oil business, and finally back to teaching. He and Friede lived for more than 50 years in New Canaan and Darien, Conn. They were longtime members of the Country Club of New Canaan, where they both enjoyed playing tennis and paddle. Tom was renowned for his great sense of humor, his collection of armies of lead soldiers, and his love of New York sports teams, especially the Yankees and the Giants.

Tom is survived by his wife, Friede; daughters Lisa and Paige; and two grandchildren. The class extends its sympathy to the entire Brayton family.