Jeffrey Andrew Bray

Jeffrey A. Bray passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Jeff was born on August 11, 1947, in Norway, Michigan to Andy Bray and Marlea (Hoheisel) Bray. He would often joke that he was born in “Norway” and was proud of his Upper Peninsula heritage. He attended Monsignor Edward Pace High School in Miami and graduated in 1965 as the class valedictorian. Following his graduation from Loyola University in New Orleans in 1969, Jeff volunteered for service in Vietnam where he proudly served as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1971. Jeff returned to the U.S. where he met and fell in love with Terry (Rice). Jeff and Terry married in 1974 and settled in Ohio. Jeff and Terry moved to Miami in 1977. Jeff worked in radio for many years in Miami and ultimately assumed the role of News Director at WINZ News radio where he and his team were awarded the prestigious Edward R. Murrow award for their coverage of the 1989 Overtown Riot. Jeff also served as the Southeast Regional Editor for United Press International. After earning a master’s degree from Barry University, Jeff went on to a successful 21-year career in public relations as an Account Manager and Senior Editor with O’Connell & Goldberg Public Relations in Fort Lauderdale. While he had many prestigious roles during his career, his favorite job was being a Papa. After retirement, Jeff relocated to Tallahassee to be closer to family. Those left to honor Jeff’s memory are his daughter Jennifer Fennell (Scott), son Jeff (Tom) and grandson Collin Fennell. Jeff is also survived by his brothers Mark, David (Melinda), Jonathan (Mary), Jerome (Christine) and Christopher, sisters Barbara Wolff (Bill), Mary Curry (Tom), and Patricia Baker (Greg), along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Terry. Jeff’s family would like to extend sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff of Seven Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center and Big Bend Hospice for the excellent care extended to Jeff during his journey. Niki Carney of Bevis Funeral Home (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193) is assisting the Bray family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Jeffrey Andrew Bray

August 11, 1947 - February 16, 2025