Martha Bray

Martha Lou Dorris Bray, 87, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, Jan. 14, 2011, at Chateau Girardeau.

She was born April 26, 1923, in Illmo, Mo., to Dr. George Thomas and Anna Sander Dorris. She had one sister, Elizabeth Dorris Britton (Randall), who preceded her in death in May 1998.

Martha attended Illmo public schools and graduated from Illmo High School in 1940. She attended Southeast Missouri State University, graduating in 1944 with a bachelor of science degree in education, majors in music and business education. While a student at Southeast, she was a member of the a cappella choir under the direction of Dr. J. Clyde Brandt. She was a soprano soloist and participated in musicals including "The Chocolate Soldier." She sang a solo, "I Know That My Redeemer Liveth," at her baccalaureate.

She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Cape Girardeau. She was a member and soloist in the church choir and taught Sunday school for several years. She was a member of the Shubert Chorale under the direction of Clara Drew Miller as well as the Cape Choraliers under the direction of Jack Palsgrove. She also taught fourth grade at Washington Elementary School. Other interests included her love of home and family as well as golf and bowling.

Survivors include her loving husband of 66 years, Alton Bray of Chateau Girardeau; children, Ellen Louise Busch of Florissant, Mo.; Mary (John) Suzanne Newberry of Katy, Texas, Dr. Jeffrey (Debbie) Owen Bray of Chesterfield, Mo; six grandchildren, Mark (Jennifer) Busch, Barbara (Jeremy) Newberry Smith, Brian (Nikki) Newberry, Kyle Bray, Haley Bray, Jordan Bray; as well as two great-grandchildren, Devin Busch and Jordan Ashen. Also surviving are many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Chapel.

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the chapel with Rev. Mike Shupert officiating.

Entombment will follow at Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church Cape Girardeau, Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Research or charity of choice.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.