Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Kenneth M. McBrayer
Kenneth M. McBrayer
Obituary
Guest Book
Kenneth McBrayer Obituary
Before the planes hit that day, Kenneth M. McBrayer had already called his wife, Marsha, three times. That was the usual pace of their long-distance arrangement, with him living in New York City, and working at Sandler O'Neill & Partners, during the week, and then joining her on the weekends in Washington, where she is a third-year law student at George Washington University.
"We were just very close," she said. Even when they had lived in the same city, it was not uncommon for them to talk by phone about 10 times a day. She saved the last message he left her, and for the past seven months has been playing it over and over again: "Hey, babe. Just checking on you. Nothing special."
Mr. McBrayer, 49, grew up in Georgia, and was an accomplished student and athlete. "He was always a committed kid," said his father, Max McBrayer of Alpharetta, Ga. "Everything he did he tried to do it the best he could."
Married since 1990, Kenneth and Marsha thrived on making each other happy, she said. They were living in New York when she decided to go to law school. She told him she would go to Fordham University, to keep her close to home. "He said, `No, go to the best law programs,' " she recalled. "He was that kind of guy. He was happiest when something good happened to me."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
George Greenleaf
September 11, 2024
Thinking of you today shipmate!
Becky Hancock Foster
September 12, 2023
Thinking of Marsha and the McBrayer family, praying you all are well. Remembering Ken at this solemn time and his enthusiatic personality.
Sharon Bowen
September 11, 2023
God bless Ken McBrayer & all his family.
Never forget.
❤
EDGAR BATES
September 11, 2023
Likewise thinking of you, shipmate.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
George Greenleaf
September 10, 2023
Thinking of you shipmate. 22 years...hard to believe. Great memories from our days on Capo and years of friendship later.
Jojo Grove
September 11, 2021
Ken was a great guy who truly loved his wife Marsha. I knew him as a customer in my restaurant in Florida, and he and Marsha became friends of mine quickly. I cannot ever forget their friends coming and telling me that he had died that day in NY. It took me to my knees, how could someone so nice be gone in this horrific attack on our country??? I know that they had plans to sail, and that was his passion. I hope Kenny, that you are sailing in some beautiful waters in heaven. God bless your wife Marsha, your family; and God bless America. Jojo
Deb Jones
September 11, 2021
I was just in New York the other day and the city was lit up with colors remembering 9/11. We happened to be walking along 6th avenue where I remember we hung out and had lunch on a bench on one of my business trips to New York. I can't believe it's been 20 years but the feeling is just as strong about what you all went through. God bless.
George Greenleaf
September 10, 2021
Rest In Peace shipmate. Can’t believe it is 20 years ago we lost you. The memory of you lives on in all the people who loved you.
Debra Buckner
September 11, 2020
I’m so glad I got your call back in 1987 to ultimately get our team hired to work w you. You were always the consummate professional and courteous while we were in states far and wide performing Due Diligence for trades. Your smile is what I remember and this picture says it all. I’ve cried and grieved even today 9-11-2020
over the events that took you and all of the victims. Thank you, Ken and continued Godspeed. Your friend, Debra Buckner
Debbie Jones
September 12, 2019
Ken, You are nevert forgotten!
Kris Bunnell Baker
September 11, 2019
Thinking of Ken again this year and every year on this date. Having known Ken in high school and losing him in this horrible act has made it so much more personal to me. Ken was always a nice gentleman to everyone he met.
George Greenleaf
September 11, 2019
Does not seem 18 years have passed shipmate. Thinking of you today and all the great times. Rest In Peace Ken.
Sameta Kemp
September 11, 2019
John and I were with Ken and Marsha for dinner on Sunday, Sept. 9, 2011. While sitting on our patio, Ken and Marsha shared stories of sailing in the Caribbean. Ken was a master sailor and grad. of the Naval Academy. He said, "Wait, "I want to show you!" He returned with a sailor's map. "This is our journey." The surprise then came. " You are going with us this year!" My husband wears four prosthesis and replied to his dear friend, "Ken, I can't be much of a mate!" Ken laughed and said, "All you must do, my friend, is enjoy the ride!" We share this message of friendship and goodness, often. Simply, that was Ken. We are thankful to you, Marsha, for that gift and all the memories. God Bless you.
Love, S & J
Laura Pendergast
August 30, 2019
I worked for Ken as a long term temp at Sandler O'Neill. I worked directly with him and although he was a nose to the grindstone person he always let me know what a great job I did for him and he taught me so much about being a good employee and a dependable one at that. He loved loved his wife and spoke of her often. It was so nice to see such a loving man to his wife. Really cool. I will miss him and cried many tears over my Sandler O'Neill friends.
Kathy
September 21, 2018
Never forgotten Sir!!
Robert Frey
September 14, 2018
I had the distinct honor and privilege to be LTJG Ken McBrayer's Commanding Officer in the mid 1970's. From the time I reported aboard and met this fine young man, he just stood out as one of a distinct few who was "Head and Shoulders" above his peers. Back then, he wanted to be a Doctor and I tried in vain to get the detailers at the Bureau of Naval Personnel to send him to the DOD Medical Program. Alas it was all to no avail. He was successful at every thing he did and still serves as an inspiration to me and in the memories of his shipmates.
With great esteem and loving memory,
Robert D. Frey
Captain USN (Ret.)
David McCoy
September 13, 2018
I will never forget. Continuing prayer for those left behind.
George Greenleaf
September 12, 2018
Thought of you all yesterday shipmate! Does not seem 17 years have passed since you were taken away. I will always cherish those great times in Mayport and aboard USS Capodanno!
Becky Hancock-Foster
September 11, 2018
Thinking of you today. R.I.P. sweetie and keep em straight up there!
Diane Friel
July 16, 2018
Wow, I never met you Ken but I know Marsha, your wife. I have been playing tennis with her for 4 years now. She is awesome and speaks so highly of you. She is pained by your passing. I feel so bad because I know she loves you dearly. My family and I visited the 9/11 memorial and museum last month and were blown away by the magnitude. I looked up your name undet the victims' list and it gave me insight into your and Marsha's special bond. So sorry for you and Marsha to have to experienced this horrific event. God Bless.
Joe Santore
September 11, 2016
Met you, Ken, when I started teaching at Briarwood High School in East Point, GA. Your Dad was the best Principal ever. You were always a great student and an inspiration to younger kids as you progressed. You are still an inspiration today.
Sharon Powell
September 10, 2016
May you rest in peace & may your light always burn brightly in the memories of your family & friends.
✝
George Greenleaf
September 10, 2016
Thinking of you shipmate! Very hard to believe it has been 15 years since you were taken away from us. Rest in peace.
Tom Lozier
September 9, 2016
You remain in our thoughts dear classmate Loz '74
Katharine McBrayer-Moots
May 25, 2016
I visited N.Y. and the 9/11 Memorial for the first time last week. What were the odds that I would see the name, "McBrayer" on my first approach up to the Memorial pool?
It was an eerie feeling, because I don't think 'McBrayer' is a very common name. After reading Kenneth M. McBrayer's background on this site, it makes me wonder if we are distantly related, since my grandfather, Fritz Anderson McBrayer, was also from Georgia.
Condolences to the family -
George Greenleaf
September 12, 2014
Thinking of you shipmate! Fair winds and following seas!
Sharon Powell Bowen
September 11, 2014
Thinking of the McBrayer family
??
September 11, 2014
I worked w Ken in the mortgage banking business beginning in 1987. He was one of the hardest working persons I have ever known. Expected and gave excellence. Was in the New York office a few times & Memphis often. I've grieved him for these 13 years. An American tragedy.
Mark T
September 11, 2014
I wish I had known Ken better, but I do know that if my friend Edgar Bates speaks as highly of him as he does, that he was a heck of a guy. I'm sorry for your loss.
Kyle McCain
September 11, 2014
One of the very best classmates that I got to know at USNA'74.
September 11, 2014
Our friend. Our hero.
John D and Sam Kemp
Edgar Bates
September 11, 2014
One of the finest Naval Officers to have served his country. An all around great guy. What a loss. God bless.
Sherri Cole Descalzo
September 11, 2014
Thoughts and prayers are with your family today. You will always be remembered.
S J. Friscia III
September 7, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Joe Santore
May 15, 2014
You were a good student at Briarwood HS in East Point and grew into a brave soul on that day in 2001. As your teacher I've never forget your spirit
At the 9/11 Memorial, on March 8, 2014.
Marcia Proctor
March 10, 2014
Debbie Jones
September 12, 2013
Still thinking about you, not only on Sept. 11th, but often. You are in the minds and hearts of your friends forever.
Suzy G
September 11, 2013
You'll always live in the heart of people you touch. I think of you and Marsha.
George Greenleaf
September 11, 2013
Thinking of you on this day shipmate! Hard to believe you were taken from this world 12 years ago. Just the other day I found the old USS Capadanno ball cap you gave me in 1976. It was an honor knowing you Ken!
KATHY SCHLOTTERBECK
September 11, 2012
WE REMEMBER RIP
Janna (Schildknecht) Pfautz
September 11, 2011
Thinking of Ken on this 10th Anniversary. Ken was a great friend; respectful, kind, generous, dedicated and hard working. My world was a better place because of him; our world today could use his intellect, hard work and sense of humor. Missing you, my friend.
Sandi Eskew Allison-Hamrick
September 11, 2011
You were a star and now you are a super star! You will always be missed.
Christopher Perrien
September 11, 2011
Kenny and I were classmates at the Naval Academy. He was indeed a charming gentleman and a true shipmate to all. Somehow he managed to be ever self-effacing even though he was obviously the brightest person in the room. The poignancy of his sacrifice and our loss is that we must do all that we can in the cause of others while we are able. I've seen his name at the WTC site in New York and the Columbarium wall in Annapolis; yet I cannot imagine him absent from the next class reunion singing those silly rugby team songs.
Mary Peterson (Breedon)
September 11, 2011
Ken,
You were always an example. Whether in class or the halls of Briarwood, in sports--always an example. You're part of what makes America great. You are remembered. God bless you.
Wanda (North) Cranford
September 11, 2011
10 years ago today we lost a Dear friend. Just letting you know I will never forget you. May you Rest in Peace. God be with your family today & always.
Robert Owen
September 11, 2011
It seems like yesterday we were in High School together. You were my hero. Not because of your brilliance or your athleticism, but because you made everyone you touched feel special. I am thinking of your family today and fondly remembering such fine people.
Debbie Jones (aka Nottingham)
September 10, 2011
It feels like yesterday because I think of you no less now than I did then. You were a special friend to me and so many. You were and are a hero. Miss you and miss the friendship immensley. Prayers to your family.
George Greenleaf
September 9, 2011
Ten years...hard to believe! The other day I found an old USS Capodanno ball cap Ken gave me when I came aboard back in 1976 as one of the embarked helicopter pilots for a cruise to the Middle East. Ken had that personality such that we became instant friends. You are missed Ken!! My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Meg Hill
September 9, 2011
Harding university, my school in searcy, Arkansas had a 9/11 program in chapel today. Each students seat had a name on the back of a victim who fell. Kenneth mcbrayer was the name on mine. My prayers go out to his family and friends as another year passes since their loss. I can't offer you that I know how you feel, but I can offer up this fact and that is that our God is faithful. I pray you have a blessed day and month filled with love and peace. God bless.
-Meg hill
Wayne Kennard
November 23, 2010
As most things go, I happened to think of Ken today and wondered what happened to him since we served together on the Capodanno. I went to the Intenet and was saddened to see he was one of the fallen on 9/11. Ken was not only a good friend but he was my stateroom mate on the Capodanno when we were both Junior Officers. The other thing I realized was that in flip flopping between my Boston and New York Offices before 9/11, I missed the opportunity to be reconnected with a good friend during my stints in New York. God bless you and family for your personal loss, but Ken is missed by his wider family.
Carl Meacham
October 15, 2010
Ken and I worked together on many occasions... all enjoyable, all professional. I have thanked God for the chance to know him.
George Greenleaf
September 13, 2010
Ken and I served together in the Navy and stayed friends as best we could after both of us left the Navy. When I think about those times on board USS Capadanno, I have the greatest of memories. Ken was a true professional and loved the Navy. He made the long deployments fun. Words will never come close to describing the loss of Ken and the impact to his family and his friends. His legacy will last forever. Thoughts are with you shipmate!
Kathy Shaul
September 12, 2010
I didn't know Ken, but I knew Marsha his wife, working together at Freddie Mac before they moved to NYC. All I know is how Marsha loved Ken SOOOO very much - that was quite an inspiration to me and what I remember most about her. When I think of 9/11, I think of Marsha and Ken and how cruelly their lives were ripped away from each over. Marsha I hope your pain can somehow some way go away. I love you Marsha and pray for you and Ken often.
Kathy
Ed Fredrickson
September 12, 2010
I never new Ken but I was in the Class of 77 and I thought a lot of his father. My thoughts and prayers go out to you always.
Rhonda Gabriel
September 11, 2010
I just found out that Ken was killed on 9/11/2001. I remember my brothers, Mike and Ken Reagan, being friends with him. I graduated from BHS in 1976. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and always.
Linda Fredrickson/Ingram
September 11, 2010
I am a 1971 Briarwood High School graduate. I am very sorry for your loss and pray that America will never forget this day.
Carol Pirkle
September 10, 2010
I just found out that your son was one of the lives lost on September 11, 2001. I never knew Ken but he was in the same class as my brother Phillip Cook at Briarwood High School. I knew you because you were the principal. I graduated in 1974 from Briarwood. My sincere sympathy to you and all of your family. May God bless you and your family.
Carol (Cook) Pirkle
David McCoy
September 10, 2010
As I was watching a history channel program of that terrible day I remembered Ken not as a victim but as the kid up the street in East Point, and as the young man, accepted to go to the Navel Acadamy. I pray that Gods love will surround the family that Ken left behind
Tony McBrayer
September 8, 2010
Just thinking about 9/11 again today. I just wanted to say your in our thoughts and the memory of that sad day will never leave us.God Bless and REST IN PEACE. Tony McBrayer ~ Knoxville,TN
jered mcbrayer
May 5, 2010
sorry for your lose
Kenneth McBrayer's star on a high school memorial wall.
Bradley Williams
February 16, 2009
I never knew Kenneth McBrayer but I know he was a good man from what I read about him here. I took this picture of a 9-11-01 Memorial Wall in my high school on September 11, 2006. Ken's name is in this picture so I thought I would share it here. This is just an example of how Ken will never be forgotten.
George Greenleaf
September 12, 2008
I thought of Ken all day yesterday. I have such great memories of the time we spent together during our Indian Ocean/Middle East cruise in 1976. You are sorely missed, but not forgotten!
wanda (north) cranford
September 11, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Kathryn (Phillips) Weber
May 22, 2008
I worked with Ken when he was in Memphis and then again when he was with the RTC and Sandler O'Neill. He was a true Southern gentleman and a classy guy. I know on that dark day in 2001, he was a hero to all he helped. I miss you, Ken.
George Greenleaf
March 23, 2008
I served with Ken onboard the USS Capodanno back in the 70's. We cruised to the Middle East and enjoyed our times ashore. We stayed friends long after each of us left the Navy. I think of Ken a lot and always talk about his days at the Naval Academy with his Class of 1974 classmates. You will not be forgotten Ken!
Wanda (NORTH) Cranford
September 11, 2007
JUST LETTING YOU KNOW I'M THINKING ABOUT YOU ALL TODAY. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND I'LL NEVER FORGET KEN AS LONG AS I LIVE. VERY SPECIAL PERSON!
P Tabbernor
December 26, 2006
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 17, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
WANDA CRANFORD
September 12, 2006
I'm just finding out that your son was one of the precious lives lost Sept.11. I also went to Briarwood and there was never a day that your son did not speak to me when we passed in the halls. Just over all a very kind person. Spent a few time in the principals office so I did get to know MR. McBrayer, he's a wonderful man,and so was Kenneth. GOD BLESS YOU MR.McBRAYER and the rest of your family. With My Deepest Sympathy,
Wanda (North) Cranford
Brairwood High 68-72
Kyle McCain
March 9, 2005
As president of USNA Class of '74 our plebe year, I got to know Ken as he represented his company. I considered him one of the best we had and a close friend. I learned of his fate while visiting the Academy last year and was overwhelmed by the knowledge. I cannot imagine how you have managed to accept this loss. It still hurts me today to know that he was lost this way. Know how fortunate you are to have been close to him.
CHRIS WATSON
February 23, 2005
I WENT TO THE SAME HIGH SCHOOL AS KEN EVEN THOUGH HE WAS MY OLDER SISTER'S AGE.I REMEMBER HE WAS IN A PLAY,BYE BYE BIRDIE AND RODE HIS MOTORCYCLE DOWN THROUGH THE GYM. GOD BLESS HIS WIFE,FAMILY AND MR.MAX,HIS DAD FOR WHOM I HAVE GREAT RESPECT FOR.
Jim Haight
August 10, 2004
I knew Max McBrayer when he was my principal at Milton High School in Alpharetta, GA. He is a man of great conviction and I know he passed this on to Ken. Mr. McBrayer always talked about his family and I know this tragedy is something I'll never understand. To the McBrayers, you will always be in my prayers. I learned from you and my only way to repay that is to keep you in my prayers. 9/11 changed us all forever, but some more than others. God Bless you all.
Jim
Larry Ragan
September 11, 2003
Dear All,
I was years behind Kenneth at Briarwood High School but still under his father's leadership. When I heard Prin. McBrayer lost his son in 9/11, I was incredibly grieved.
Over the last two years I have located Ken's name in DC, NYC, and on web pages always praying for all the McBrayers.
At the two year marker, please know your pain has not been forgotten and people you don't know still pray for you all.
Larry Ragan
BHS (attended 76-78, moved then graduated '81)
Marty Jarosz
July 15, 2003
I was thinking of Ken today. I don't know why, but I feel close to him some how. We were company mates at the Naval Academy, friends of sorts, but always brothers. I watched as the towers fell on 9/11 not knowing Ken was there. I attended his memorial service in Annapolis and felt his presence so strongly and each time I look at the Manhattan skyline, I see Ken. Ken has made such a difference in so many lives and will live on in our hearts forever.
Beat Army !
Robin McBrayer
September 16, 2002
America still feels your loss deeply... Not knowing anyone in New York it was a real shock to read someones name that my be related in some way. You are a part of our history and our greater family and we are saddened that we never got the chance to know you. God Bless your family and friends.
The entire McBrayer Family of Ohio--
Howard Lewis
September 13, 2002
Dear McBrayer's et al, My heart and prayers go out to y'all. Ken was a dear friend, classmate,and teammate. Ken taught me to never give up on a task at hand. May God bless you Ken. God bless. Sincerely Howard S. Lewis (Briarwood High Class of 70.
David Everitt
September 11, 2002
I worked with Ken at Procter and Gamble before we both left to pursue mortgage banking. A great guy, in his prime.
Laura (Kammerer) Fleming
September 11, 2002
Today is the 1 year anniversary and you are still in our thoughts and prayers. I did not know you but your father had a big role in my life. He was the Principal at Briarwood High School in East Point and I will never forget the basketball practice where he came in and worked with me on my hook shot. I have you and your family in my prayers. God Bless America!!
Debbie (Nottingham) Jones
August 8, 2002
I worked with Ken at the RTC in Atlanta. We had a great time as a group and Ken was the core. What a work ethic, what a great guy. We all had alot of fun. I kept up with Ken over the years either by phone or at a convention or when I was in town. He would make time for coffee at Sandler O'Neill or at a restaurant. He always focused on who he was with - generous with his time and energy. He was and is a special soul. I am sad to think how I won't see you again for a while. I am sad what your wife and family has had to endure but I am grateful in knowing you are in a better place. I miss you and your RTC friends miss you. Debbie Jones
Angie Campbell
May 6, 2002
May God Bless you and the ones that you left behind that horrible day last September. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace..........
MIke Caldwell
May 6, 2002
I worked with Ken at Commerce McGehee Mortgage in Memphis in 1985-1986. I did not know Ken was a victim of the September 11th terrorist attacks until I saw his obituary in today's (5/5/02) New York Times. It was a real shock.
Ken was one of the hardest working guys I have ever known. I am proud to have known him. May he rest in peace.
Denise
April 23, 2002
This is an Indian Proverb, I have come to appreciate it.
"As I entered the world I was crying but everyone else was laughing , As I leave the world I am laughing while everyone else is crying . Please do no wish me back."
March 2, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS LONELY NAME...KENNETH M.MCBRAYER AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS...GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN
Teresa Jahn
December 22, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Showing 1 - 84 of 84 results
Make a Donation
in Kenneth McBrayer's name
How to support Kenneth 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kenneth McBrayer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored