Born and raised in Canton, PA, Jerry learned a strong work ethic at his father’s meat market, the Brann Meat Market on Main Street. He graduated from Canton High as Valedictorian of the Class of 1952. Jerry graduated form the University of Notre Dame in 1956 and then served 2 years in the Army with a missile battalion stationed in Tappan, NY. Jerry then returned to Notre Dame Law School and graduated in 1962 with his law degree.
He worked with a law firm in Philadelphia for one year and then returned home to join the Evan Williams Law Firm in Troy, PA in 1964. He eventually became senior partner of the Brann, Williams, Caldwell & Blaney firm.
Jerry married Joy Madigan in 1964. They have been married 56 years. They have three children; Matthew who is a Federal Judge, David who is a practicing attorney in the firm, and Sara who is a teacher in Massachusetts. Joy and Jerry have 4 grandchildren.
Jerry is a lifetime member of St. Michaels Church where he has served as a Eucharistic minister and taught Sunday school. He is also a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Jerry spent many years as Solicitor for both the Canton and Troy School Boards. He is a past solicitor for Canton Borough Council and the Canton Water Authority. He was a director of the Bank of Canton for 36 years serving at different times as Secretary, President, and Chairman of the Board.
Jerry is still practicing law at the age of 85 and is a 50-year-member of the PA Bar Association, and former President of the Bradford County Bar Association.
Jerry has been a member of the Canton Lions Club for 32 years and has served as Secretary and President. Jerry organizers the White Cane Day, which is very successful in raising funds for the club’s mission of charitable giving. As a Lion he has been an active member of the club, obtaining speakers for meetings, helping organize many social nights, and the annual Christmas Party. Jerry has participated in all fundraising efforts of the Lions Club.
The Canton Lions Club is extremely proud to honor Jerry with this prestigious award. All who know him will agree that this honor is well deserved.