Longtime Jay Mayor Passes Away

October 9, 2011

A longtime mayor of Jay has passed away. Jeroel D. “J.D.” Bray passed away after an extended illness. He was 91.

After serving in the Army, working for Escambia River Electric Cooperative and the Santa Rosa County Road Department, Bray decided to enter politics. He was elected to the Jay City Council in 1954 and served two years. He was then elected mayor and held the office for 44 years.

During Bray’s term, many of Jay’s roads were paved, a sewer system was installed, a new city hall and community center were constructed and two parks were acquired. One of those parks, the Bray-Hendricks Park, is named is his honor.

Bray is survived by Theda Bray, his wife of 59 years and three children.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 11 at the Jay Funeral Home with burial to follow at Jay Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

For Jeroel D. “J.D.” Bray’s complete obituary, click here.

Comments

3 Responses to “Longtime Jay Mayor Passes Away”

  1. Rick Buonopane on October 12th, 2011 8:12 am

    To the Bray family my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. May you all rest knowing that Mayor Bray did great things in our community and will NEVER be forgotten. May GOD bless each of you and comfort you during this tragic time.

  2. DJSheffield on October 11th, 2011 10:45 pm

    To the Bray family my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. May you all rest knowing that Mayor Bray did great things in our community and will NEVER be forgotten. May GOD bless each of you and comfort you during this tragic time.

  3. Angi B. on October 9th, 2011 10:41 am

    May Mr. Bray rest in peace
    To the Bray Family:
    Thoughts Are With You During This Difficult Time
    A Time Like This Is Difficult For So Many People,
    May It Comfort You To Know, That There Is
    Support With You At All Times; From Friends
    And Loved Ones.

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