By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
The Braswell family has been a large part of Madison County for many years. Paul Braswell is no exception, and he has certainly made his mark on this county. Paul was born and raised in Greenville. His father was a merchant who owned several stores ranging from a grocery store to a feed store, and even a furniture store. To the community he was known as Red Braswell.
Paul learned a lot about living from his dad, and followed in his footsteps a great deal. Paul owned the Crossroads Restaurant and Service Station in Greenville. Back in that time, Crossroads was the hangout of choice for school kids and families.
Back in those days, Greenville was a happening place. There were four mills going every day and there were several stores for locals to shop at. Even through hard times, Greenville maintained its small town and thriving feel. The Bank of Greenville was so powerful that it didn’t bust during the depression.
When he was growing up, Paul attended Greenville High School. In high school he was a member of the FFA and was even the president his senior year. That is a quality that runs in the family, Paul’s son-in-law Ed Sapp, and grandson, Clay Sapp, were both Presidents of the FFA their senior years of high school. Clay was also the President of the FFA for the state of Florida. Paul spent much of his high school career doing activities with the FFA. He showed hogs and steers during the cattle show in Madison every year. He also played football when he was in high school.
Paul has always been involved in community activities. He served on the school board from 1976-1986. He belongs to the Methodist church in Greenville. Paul married the love of his life, Kathleen, and they have three children together: Gina, Robin and Paul Jr.
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