Gary Bray

KANSAS CITY, Kansas -- Gary Bray, 73, of Kansas City passed away during Winter's Solstice, Monday, Dec. 21, 2020.

He was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to Clara Mae Edmonds and James William Bray.

After earning several college degrees, Gary joined the Air Force and served as a captain during the Vietnam War.

After serving overseas in Greenland and Japan, Gary graduated from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and became a pastor.

Gary left a legacy and lived a life of values focused on compassion, servant leadership, generosity, healing, kindness and a witty sense of humor.

He supported his family, friends and community up until the day he died.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; beloved sister, Margaret, and strong brother, Jimmy; as well as Becky Wolverton and Lois Bain.

He is survived by his daughter, Alison (Jeff) St. John, and his amazing nieces, Melanie Thomas and Marcie Farris, and their children.

He is also survived by former spouse, Julia Gardner Bray, and cousins, Jeff Bray, Nancy Bray, Mary Newberry, Ellen Busch and Mike Bray of California.

His family will never forget his teachings about forgiveness and caring for others.

Contributions may be made in his honor to www.kc-heroes.org.

Speaks Chapels in Independence, Missouri, is in charge of arrangements.