Kathaleen Evans Brauer

Kathaleen Evans Brauer, beloved mother, grandmother (Mimi), daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 67 on June 6, 2025, with her family by her side, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and cherished memories.

Born and raised in Poquoson (Bull Island), Kathy was proud of her roots and even prouder to be a student of the Class of 1975. Her love for her hometown and community was evident in all she did. “Bull Island Born, Bull Island bred, and when I die, I’ll be Bull Island Dead” can be found imprinted all over her house and if you knew her, I’m guessing you probably heard it once or twice.

Kathy was known for her fun-loving spirit and infectious laughter. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—road trips and vacations with loved ones, discovering new restaurants, listening to and admiring Elvis Presley, shopping adventures, supporting her grandchildren’s school and sporting events, and searching for sea glass along the shore. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her warmth and sense of humor drew people to her, and she made friends wherever she went.

In 2007, Kathy retired from the City of Hampton, Department of Fire Administration, after a long and fulfilling career, where she worked closely with numerous fire chiefs throughout her 32-year career with them. Her commitment and compassion touched the lives of many colleagues and community members.

Entrepreneurial at heart, Kathy couldn’t stay retired long, she ran Wallace’s Bait and Tackle and Back River Outfitters (formerly Vanasse’s) for a few years with her late husband, Chris, in Fox Hill, Virginia, before opening Island Antiquities in Poquoson, in 2017, an antique and consignment shop she co-owned with one of her best friends, Diane Holloway. The shop was a reflection of her love for unique treasures and her keen eye for beauty.

Kathy is survived by her children and bonus children; Stewart E. Millen II (Courtney), Shannon K. Millen, Clint E. Brauer and Valerie N. Brauer. Her grandchildren; Caden E. Brauer, Hatteras V. Blink, Audrey V. Blink, River L. Risen, Julie K. Brauer, and Everett R. Millen. Her mother, Maxine C. Hubbard and bonus mother, Pat J. McDowell. Her siblings; Jo H. Slack (Eddie), H. Bryan Hubbard (Shannon), Trish E. Huheey (Phil), Carol E. Daly. Her nieces; Briana H. Insley (Bubbie), Kendall and Kaela Huheey; Jessica, Jamie, and Jordan Daly. Great nephews; Charlie and Jack Insley and a host of Cousins Kathy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Chris E. Brauer. Her fathers; Sidney F. Evans and John E. Hubbard, Grandson; Harrison E. Brauer, and several loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins as well.

Her family and friends will remember Kathy for her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering love. She lived life to the fullest and leaves behind a legacy of joy and generosity that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 1 PM at Parklawn Memorial Park in Hampton, Va. Funeral Service to follow at 2:30 p.m. at Claytor Rollins.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Kathy’s memory by sharing a laugh, enjoying good food with loved ones, or searching for a piece of sea glass on the beach. Donations can be made in her honor to the American Cancer Society to help further Brain Cancer Research or your local Fire Department.

Arrangements and heartfelt guidance through Claytor Rollins Funeral Home.

Online condolences to claytorrollins.com.

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