Thomas Edgar Bray

God has blessed me with 3 earthly fathers. My biological father who died when I was 16 years old, my step-dad who I've known and loved for 30 years and Tom Bray ("Papa", my spiritual father who led me to Jesus Christ). I remember (I'm sure others will also) his introduction of me to his friends and family by saying, "you can tell I love him, because I had a chance to drown him and I didn't". He baptized me 11 years ago. He has left a lasting impression on my life. I was never thought of as a...

I was blessed to have this great man as my Daddy for 49 years. I have never doubted the unconditional love of God because my earthly father demonstrated it so well. My heart is broken and I cannot fathom life here on earth without my "soulmate", but I know we will be together again someday and that my work here on earth must not be done. Oh, that we will love all people as my Daddy did. That is what he would want.

Tom was a special friend and a great hugger who spread laughter and "sonshine" wherever he went. He will be missed on earth but is enjoying in his new home, no doubt.

Tom Bray was used by God to not only bring me back to faith, but was the first to suggest that God might use me in pastoral ministry. For 23 years, he has been my example of how to shepherd a flock. I am forever changed because of the love of Papa Bray. While we grieve his loss, his legacy lives on through all those who are his sons in ministry.

Ed Rowell

Bro. Tom left a lasting impact on my ministry and on my family. His ministry will live on through the many he loved and guided.

Tom was a wonderful, Godly man that brought joy to everyone he touched. He will be missed!

Tom was a great man and a wonderful servant of God. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to all the family.