John Edwin Brainard II, of Newport, RI died June 5, 2026. He was 85. John was a longtime resident of Darien, CT and Edgartown, MA.

John grew up in Darien, CT and graduated from Darien High School. He attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. His career was spent working in finance.

John was a former member of Indian Harbor Yacht Club, Ida Lewis Yacht Club and Edgartown Yacht Club. He had a great passion as a sailor, racing aboard Bolero in the 1960-70’s. He also spent many years sailing and racing the family Shields.

He was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Sally Lovell Brainard.

He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Brainard Armellini, son-in-law, Richard Aldrich Armellini, grandsons Alexander Aldrich Armellini, daughter-in-law Megan Forman Armellini and Benjamin Brainard Armellini, daughter-in-law Katherine Sondag Armellini and four great grandchildren.

He built a life of love, loyalty and dedication to his family who loved him.

Services will be private.