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Linda Collins
March 2, 2013
I was so sad to hear of Chris' passing. I knew him from elementary through high school . In addition we also attended the same church for many years.He was indeed a man of strong character and faith. I remember his sweet parents from seeing them in church every Sunday. I feel so lucky to have known him. He will be missed.
Linda Hays Collins , Katy, Tx
James Chase
December 18, 2012
What an extraordinary person! And what a pleasure to have been his friend since his days as a student at Texas. Everyone fortunate enough to know him will miss him greatly. He graced every one and every thing he touched.
Dee & Robert Jackson
December 16, 2012
Your dear remembrance card for Chris came in yesterday's mail,Gail,and we are so sad to hear of Chris' passing - our contact with Port Arthur news is so limited now. Robert, your Bob/Bobby will be in touch via real mail, but I wanted you to send an e-hug to you all right away. We hold you all close to our hearts, regardless of time and distance. We still share Rommel stories with friends who may not have already heard them in the course of our 35+ yrs together. You are all loved! Always, Dee
Francesca Csipkay
October 8, 2012
I am very shocked to have discovered today that Chris Bray had died. This is sad for his family and his friends and also I feel disconcerted myself for he was so important a person to my consciousness of what a lawyer could be and with his wits could distinguish out and get at what was true, truth. What more can one want but how difficult it can be to have a spokesman for.
July 23, 2012
I remember Chris as a kind man with a great sense of compassion for others, and a wonderful sense of humor. Deepest sympathy to Gail and his children--Rich Fern
Ruthie Perkins
May 30, 2012
Chris has left an incredible legacy for his family. Those of us who graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and/or attended the University of Texas salute a life well lived. Ruthie (Colletti) Perkins
Spanky Stephens
May 30, 2012
My thoughts and prayers for the Bray family
May 30, 2012
Darrell and Edith Royal send love and condolences to to the family of Chris
Michael McArthur, MD
April 17, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers for the entire Bray family.
April 16, 2012
Gail, Bonner, and Tessa,
What a remarkable man and an uplifting service you had in his honor. Mark, Kira, Kalen and I will be making a contribution in Chris's name to the FIrst Church of Christ Scientist, Boise.
Much Love,
The Thoriens
Terry Coffin
April 14, 2012
Gail and family, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Glida Bothwell
April 13, 2012
Dear Gail,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We were out of town and just got the news about Chris. Idaho and our community have been blessed with his service, and he will be missed.
Sincerely, Glida and Glenn Bothwell
April 13, 2012
Chris will be counted as one of Idaho's treasures. He will be missed by many and we are so grateful we got to meet him. In deepest sympathy to his dear family.
Jackie and Jean-Claude Aymon
McCall, ID
MaryEvelyn Smith
April 13, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with Gail and the children.
Nancy (Bushnell) Norton
April 10, 2012
I attended TJ High School with Chris and remember him fondly. Please feel prayers intended to lift up your family at this difficult time. It is evident that God richly blessed Chris with a loving wife and family and a life of positive service. God Bless each one of you. Nancy Bushnell Norton
Randy Chatagnier
April 9, 2012
My family lived next door to the Brays on Neches Ave for a short time. I was 9 years old at the time and their home was always open to me. I was made to feel like a youngest brother. There was not a more admired family in all of Port Arthur. I could not help but notice that Mr. Bray, Chris dad, has not yet been mentioned. He was an amazing wonderful storyteller, I never wanted our conversations to end. I remember the times that Mr. Bray and a group of his friends group would use the big ovens, at my dad's bakery to roast 50 or 60 turkeys every holiday season for needy families. They had it down to a system, bringing card tables and playing cards and tell stories while the turkey roasted.
Chris was blessed with wonderful parents and brothers. It is obvious that he lived a life that made them very proud. My condolences to his wife and children as well as Clarence and Elliot
Joe and Merdie McCarter
April 7, 2012
Dear Gail,
Joe and I were so sorry to learn of Chris' passing. Joe has had health problems, and I don't keep up with what is happening, the whole caregiver role taking much of my time. So, we missed the gathering for Chris. I hope the gathering gave you and your family some comfort. It is hard to bear, I know, having someone you love so much gone before their time nature allows. Much love from both of us. Merdie and Joe.
Bruce Langworthy
April 7, 2012
Dear Gail, Bonnar and Tessa,
Please accept my deepest condolances to your family for Chris's passing. He was a great man, lawyer, and friend to help me and my family as anyone has ever been. I gladly was always willing to return the favor several times over for him and your family when I could help. For Idaho and many families he has touched we have lost such a wonderfull advocate and true treasure of a man.
Charlette Presnell
April 6, 2012
My deepest and most sincere sympathy to you and your family. Idaho has a lost a great citizen. He will be missed.
Harold Barnette
April 6, 2012
Gail,my heart goes out to you & your children, as well as to Chris' brothers & all those so deeply affected by Chris' passing. Comments eulogizing Chris, as well as my conversations with you & Chris at a high school reunion, have convinced me that Chris maintained those noble qualities which, as a classmate, I observed in his youth. I was privileged to have attended Port Arthur public schools with Chris from Tyrrell Elementary days through high school graduation. The gift of leadership tempered by a willingness to befriend everyone regardless of their status or abilities emerged in his early boyhood & continued throughout his teen years. Chris' election as student body president was far more than winning a popularity contest. It reflected the response of peers who recognized his sincere desire to serve them. No doubt, honors bestowed on him in later years speak the same message. I shall always treasure the example Chris set for the rest of us. May you, Bonnar, & Tessa find comfort in great memories and strength from the concern of others, even as you feel the caring touch of God's love.
Harold W. Barnette--Cape Fair, MO
Thomas Jefferson HS/Class of 1964
April 5, 2012
Dear Gail and family,
Word has just reached me, and my heart goes out to you.
Those who answer a calling to the law are given responsibilities not only to represent clients and to be officers of the legal system, but also to be "public citizens having special responsibility for the quality of justice." In his professional life Chris fulfilled all three of these responsibilities, especially the last. As a man of high ideals and gentle demeanor, he saw each case in its justice context and its human dimension. He knew what was truly important in law and life. His passing diminishes us, but reminds us of what we can be.
- Don Burnett, Moscow, Idaho
Korena
April 5, 2012
Gail, my thoughts and prayers are with you Bonner and Tesa. I am so sorry for your loss. Chris was a very kind man and will be missed. My deepest sympathies.
April 4, 2012
I played ball and sang in the choir with Chris during our high school days in Port Arthur. We spent a good bit of time together during those years as we celebrated our victories and shed some tears over a few defeats, on and off the field. However, there was never any doubt that Chris Bray was a winner who always sought the high road of excellence, regardless of the task. I have a great deal of admiration for him and know he will be missed beyond words. My deepest sympathies to his family. His was a life well lived.
Terry Rozelle
TJ Class of 64
ruth
April 4, 2012
Gail - My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most unexpected event of Chris passing. I have not been at the Y for several days and was most surprised to hear about this, especially since talking with Chris after class the previous Monday. He was a good man from what little I knew either of you but I am happy to have shared what little we have and to have know you both. Love to you!
ruth arrington
Steven Roth
April 4, 2012
Gail, I was very sorry to hear of Chris passing and of your loss. Even though I had met Chris only twice beginning this past January and exchanged emails for proposed business dealings, it was obvious to me that he was a man of great integrity and he held in high regard the affects and results of his endeavors above the bottom line. It was a great pleasure and I am grateful for the short opportunity that I had to work with him.
Linda Funaiole
April 4, 2012
Chris was the epitome of a devoted husband and father and was one of the most gentle souls I've ever encountered. I remember how excited he was when Gail returned from a lengthy campaign trip on behalf of now President Obama. Instead of a detour to Jackpot with a group after a political party meeting/social event in Twin Falls, he so sweetly and sincerely said he preferred to just go home and be with his wife. My thoughts are with Gail, Bonnar, Tessa and other family members during this difficult and sad time. May your wonderful memories of this lovely man sustain you all.
Linda Funaiole (Meridian,ID)
Melody (Williams) Burns
April 3, 2012
Just received the news of Chris' passing. The last time I saw him was in May, 1995 when he came to Dad's memorial service. Despite having returned from a long weekend just the night before, Chris caught an EARLY a.m. flight to Portland for the service. Afterward, he spent a few hours with me before dinner with my brother's family and an evening flight home. Those hours talking about Dad, learning a side of him I never knew, seeing him thru Chris's eyes and memories are a gift I will never forget. Gail, you and Chris welcomed my folks to Boise with a warmth that they truly treasured. They considered Tessa and Bonnar honorary grandkids - dearly loved. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers - "bound up in the bundle of Life with the Lord thy God" - as is Chris.
Dickie White
April 3, 2012
Met Chris through football. He was great to be with and a true sport. He will be truly missed.
Dickie White Port Arthur, Tx and gainfully retired.
Jon Neviaser
April 3, 2012
I recently met Chris and he was helping me with a legal matter. He renewed my faith in the legal system. He was influential to me and I admired him very much. I know many people will miss him, as I will.
Jon Neviaser
Diane Ralphs
April 3, 2012
I have enjoyed reading all the comments about Chris. I also send my sympathies to Gail, Bonnar & Tessa. I got to know Chris through Gail, more than 30 years ago, during my high school years. Seeing his neverending support of Gail's political campaigns and her years in the legislature, and his support of everything his family encountered taught me at such as early age how a father should be there, no matter what. These past fews days I have been reflecting on Gail & Chris's amazing marriage and the irony that Chris was such a successful divorce attorney for all those years. His relationship with Gail was one I have always admired....so much mutual respect and love. It is hard to even imagine one without the other. Chris and Gail have been there for me as I went through a divorce, and then just a couple of years ago as I updated my mother's will. I will truly miss his grace and kindness.
Vance(Dickie) Jacobs
April 3, 2012
I knew Chris when he was a rough and tumble kid. His Mother was the Den Mother for my Cub scout Group. Chris was 4 years younger than we 8 year olds but that did not stop him from diving into our football games with gusto. And as the obituary says, his mother really was an angel of a lady.
Carolyn Bigler Hebert
April 3, 2012
What a wonderful tribute to Chris. I knew his brother's Clarence and Elliott, graduated with Elliott. My condolences to the family and friends. I posted this url in our class alumni group on FB in case others from mine and Clarence's class knew Chris. My brother Ronnie sent me the notice. Carolyn Bigler Hebert
April 3, 2012
Many years ago, we sang and danced in the Boise Music Week production of "Oklahoma." He had a quiet but gifted zest for life.
Elaine Ambrose
Mary and David Peterman
April 3, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Gail, and the rest of the family. Love from the Peterman family.
April 2, 2012
I read the noble tribute by Jim Everett at the Y this morning and this beautiful obituary Sunday. They make me want to be a better person, more like Chris. I did not know him well because he was always beside or behind Gail, with a good word and a smile on his face. If we had watched closely, men could have learned a good deal from him, I see now. Had I gone to Texas on a football scholarship everyone would have known it. And I would not have practiced family law or written the mission statement and quoted Earl Warren. (My long-ago practice was aimed at making money.) Jim's tribute reads beautifully and flows easily because he was reflecting Chris. Some things write themselves. But I morn for you all. Just Monday night Rickie was enjoying a long conversation about where he and Gail might travel, now that he was taking no more new clients. We had just agreed, again, to go to dinner. We have to seize the moment don't we! As a family you are as inspirational at Chris. Your Obama campaign tour back in Chris's Texas is another example of a life well lived. His Spirit remains. Much love to you all, Jerry Brady
Jerry Brady
April 2, 2012
I read the noble tribute by Jim Everett at the Y this morning and this beautiful obituary Sunday. They make me want to be a better person, more like Chris. I did not know him well because he was always beside or behind Gail, with a good word and a smile on his face. If we had watched closely, men could have learned a good deal from him, I see now. Had I gone to Texas on a football scholarship everyone would have known it. And I would not have practiced family law or written the mission statement and quoted Earl Warren. (My long-ago practice was aimed at making money.) Jim's tribute reads beautifully and flows easily because he was reflecting Chris. Some things write themselves. But I morn for you all. Just Monday night Rickie was enjoying a long conversation about where he and Gail might travel, now that he was taking no more new clients. We had just agreed, again, to go to dinner. We have to seize the moment don't we! As a family you are as inspirational at Chris. Your Obama campaign tour back in Chris's Texas is another example of a life well lived. His Spirit remains. Much love to you all, Jerry Brady
Stacy Falkner
April 2, 2012
When I think of Chris, I remember a man who can be described as calm, steady, wise, peaceful, and kind. But he was also a man of decisive action who knew by instinct how to make great things happen. I will never forget him grabbing my elbow and saying, "Stick with me. Let's do this. Move purposefully." Following the lead of his sheer conviction, I ended up (somewhat dazed) sitting just above the press pool at the Democratic National Convention in 2008. Who needed an admission badge when you had Chris?? :) I am eternally grateful for the memories and for the amazing and gracious soul who lead the way.
Shirley Lindstrom
April 2, 2012
Chris was one of the dearest souls I know. I first met him when we worked together on a project for Governor Batt. We didn't have a lot in common, but we instantly hit it off. He challenged everyone to be better just by being who he was.
April 2, 2012
Chris and I were classmates and we were on the football squad together. He was a stand up man and I consider it an honor to have known him. He will be remembered for being a real gentleman!
Ray Canada (Oklahoma City, OK)
Susan Franklin Corgey
April 2, 2012
Chris was a part of my life all through school and church. The entire class of 1964 will always remember this gentle man with the twinkle in his eyes. My heart and prayers go out to this family.
Cindi McKinnis
April 2, 2012
Chris will be missed. I had the great fortune of working with Chris when he helped a refugee mom I was working with to go up against a collection agency pro bono. His warmth and knowledge and compassion were unsurpassed.
Alisa Nicolls
April 2, 2012
I had the opportunity to meet Chris and the rest of the family through his son Bonnar. From the first day I met him I was always greeted with a hug and a smile. I had a great deal of respect and owe a lot to Chris and his family. I am so grateful for the time I got to spend with Chris and his family and I am deeply saddened by his loss. My prayers go out to you Bonnar, Tessa, and Gail.
Neva Walden
April 2, 2012
I knew Chris and Rommel only briefly as a next door neighbor for the 1970 spring semester at UT. Yet his elegant warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on my memory of those days. I'm happy to read in his obituary that he had a fulfilling life making a significant contribution to his community and to being human. I'm sad to learn of his passing.
Monte MacConnell
April 2, 2012
I knew Chris for over 30 years. He was an honorable attorney and a fine man. I will miss his presence in the community.
April 2, 2012
I recently moved to Boise to be a part of the
Legal Department at Micron. In my short time here I was unfortunately not aware that Chris lived in Boise. I went to college with Chris at the University of Texas and was a year behind him at UT Law school. While in college Chris and I went on a road trip to the Student Symposium on Southeast Asia Affairs at Texas A & M University in the fall of 1967. Although I haven't seen him in some 40 years, when I knew Chris in the late 60s early 70s, he was my Hero - the type of man I wanted to be and would want my sons to be. I will always remember him like that. Pete Bennett, UT Law, Dec. 1971
Barbara Nelson
April 2, 2012
I had the privilege of doing vocational expert witness work on several of Chris' law cases. He was truly a unique individual. Before we ever discussed the case at hand, he always asked me how I and my family were doing, and he gave me updates about his family, of whom he was so proud and loving. Even though I know Gail, Tess, and Bonner would give anything to have had Chris longer, my hope is that knowing what a difference he made in so many lives gives them great comfort.
Fairy Hitchcock
April 2, 2012
Chris and his family became known to our family during the Knock 'Em Dead's auditions, rehearsals and Productions of Fiddler on the Roof and Into the Woods as the Theatre was being constructed on 9th Sreet where JUMP is coming to be now...he was a quiet man who stood behind the scenes and encouraged others even as he waited to Perform. Always Encouraging Others...thank's Chris!
Fairy Hitchcock & Family
Bonnar Bray
April 1, 2012
My dad was the the most wonderful and kind hearted man I have ever known. He always had a smile on his face when ever he saw me and always gave me a hug. He will be greatly missed! RIP dad
Forrest Hopkins
April 1, 2012
I was close friends with Chris from the start of junior HS through postgraduate work at the University of Texas in Austin. We had so many good times together. There are a couple of memories that came to mind immediately. During our junior year in high school I was on the "Donkey Committee" - myself, Bob Jackson, Randy Lofton, and others - which built a huge paper mache donkey, ultimately carried aloft by four sturdy lads though the TJ auditorium for a political covention eliciting a chant of "Bray, Bray etc." and contributing to Chris' election to one of his many student goverment positions. The second is from the last year or so in Austin (71-72), when I would zip by the house he lived in just to see what t-shirt Rommel was wearing that day. Chris was one of a kind and will definitely be missed. Peace to his Family.
Jon Fishburn
April 1, 2012
I met Chris in a community choir group at BSU several years ago. I consider myself an average tenor vocalist. Chris had the skill and the ear to keep his surrounding singers on key. His kind and gentle demeanor helped to encourage me to perform better and with confidence. Chris had an ear and voice for music, and what a knowledge base he had for the history of music. I have enjoyed my brief but inspirational contact with Chris. I extend my sincere and heartfelt condolences to his wonderful family at this time of sorrow. May the grace and peace of God be with you at this time.
Brenda Garrett
April 1, 2012
Chris and Gail have been in my life for nearly 30 years. Chris helped me out of painful divorce and as I pursued career choices in investigations, he was not only a client, but a mentor and friend. His devotion to those in need sparked the desire in me to do the same in my career. His example led me to get my Paralegal certificate so I can continue to help juveniles and their families. I will miss his tremendous influence in my life. God bless him as he blessed us. Healing in Love and Light for Gail, Bonnar and Tessa.
Mackinzie Mosher
April 1, 2012
I met Chris for the first time this January, what an amazing man he was. He will forever have an impact on my life. I have never met such a genuine, caring, compassionate and loving person. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity of knowing him.
March 31, 2012
As a dear and long-time friend of Carol and Clarence Bray, I grieve with you and send prayers for comfort to the entire Bray family. What a truly remarkable man Chris was.
With sympathy and concern,
Sue White, Houston, Texas
March 31, 2012
As another of Chris's far-flung high school classmates, I want to extend my sympathy to his family. My fondest, and funniest, memory of Chris was from the Black and White Ball our senior year. A couple of us girls gave ourselves "milk rinses" in our hair that day, having read of their beautifying properties In some magazine. That night while dancing with Chris, who was much taller than I and practically had his chin on my head, he said, "Somebody around here smells like a baby's burp." Of course, I said nothing and slunk away as soon as possible.
Years later in NY City, where Ilive, I actually recognized Chris's booming laugh in a Broadway theater -- and found him at intermission, much to both of our surprise.
He was a wonderful person.
Rena Grossfield (Burns)
Brooklyn, NY
TJ Thomson
March 31, 2012
Chris was an amazing, wonderful man. He set an example for all of us to follow. He will be sorely missed. Our heart goes out to Gail, Tessa, and Bonnar.
Sherry Turner
March 31, 2012
May the Grace of our Heavenly Father wrap his arms around your family during this time of celebration of Chris's Life and days to follow. What a strong family you are. So honored to be a friend to you. All my love always.
Branden Durst
March 31, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with Gail, Tessa, and Bonnar. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Judy Austin
March 31, 2012
Dear Gail--Don and I are saddened by the loss of Chris. My parents so enjoyed getting to know him as a fellow newcomer to Boise in 1974, and we've been grateful for his wise and thoughtful work as our attorney recently. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Julie Takeuchi
March 31, 2012
Gail & family -- I was saddened to read of your tremendous loss and hope you will be comforted by your precious memories.
Pat Truman
March 31, 2012
Gail, Bonnar, and Tessa, I have a vivid picture (both visual and aural) of your strong and gentle husband and father. He always greeted me with those bright eyes, he always made everyone feel special. I send you my heart during this time of loss. I am so glad you were and are such a close family with precious memories. You inspire. God bless you.
Kassie Cerami
March 31, 2012
I have so many amazingly pleasant and special memories with Chris. Our political travels, our campaigns and events...were always lightened by Chris' steady and pleasant personality! :) He was always a TRUE southern gentleman and I will treasure my friendship with him and the entire Bray family. I am truly a better person for having known him.
Lyn McCollum
March 31, 2012
Our family is grieving but is comforted by remembering Chris' gentle, constant support of all life. I feel fortunate to have known him--and the Brays, young and old.
Mickey Breaux
March 31, 2012
To Chris's family
Chris and I were class mates at Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur, Texas 1964. The last time I saw him was at our 10th year reunion but I thougt of him often. He was a good person who cared for all. He will be missed.
Mickey Breaux TJ 1964
Camille and Andrew Hanhardt
March 31, 2012
Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache, but those who care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind. May you find strength in the love of family and in the warm embrace of friends. May the angels watch over you and give you the freedom to mourn as freely as you need to.
Ken & Sandi Elliott & MacFadden
March 31, 2012
Gail & family, We are so sorry to learn of Chris' sudden passing. I'll hold fond memories always of appearing with you both in Into the Woods. Christina's optimism and gentle spirit shone brightly in Chris. You're in our thoughts & prayers.
ELLERY LACY
March 31, 2012
Chris was a wonderful friend from the 4th thru 12th grade. We mostly lose track of one another as we proceed through life, but I am grateful to know the world was a bit better because he dwelt upon it. My prayers go out to his loving family.
Harriett Ellerbee
March 31, 2012
Chris was a dear, dear person. I met this wonderfully special family in the mid 40's when my family moved into a home across the street from the Brays on Neches Ave in Port Arthur, Texas. Many memories of playing outside till the street lights came on---one in particular when he was so concerned when I fell out of the tree near his driveway but we agreed to not say a word to anyone lest I would be sorely berated by all the other neighborhood kids! It was his bed that slept in one time when I ran away from home--on the first floor of their 2-story where the 3 boys (brothers I never had biologically) slept. I overheard his sweet Mother calling mine saying "she's here--she ran away from home so we'll just keep her overnight."
My most heartfelt condolences to the family and know that I'm with you in spirit during these most trying days and thanks, Vonnie, for letting me know.
Lee Flinn
March 31, 2012
Gail and family,
I'm very sorry for your loss. You have a beautiful family and I'm glad you have so many memories to give you comfort. You are in my thoughts.
Tim Flood
March 31, 2012
I'm so sorry to learn of Chris' passing! I recently met Chris and Gail through my son Maclean. What a fine man! Chris meant a great deal to my son, who calls him 'a good friend and real mentor'.
March 31, 2012
Mary and I will surely miss Chris' gentle humor and kind ways. A true 'Gentle Man'. Chris can hold a place for us when next we sing together in that special choir.
Alav ha-sholem, my friend.
Alan and Mary Schwartzman
March 31, 2012
My sympathies to the family of Chris. I knew Chris from Thomas Jefferson high school as well as the University of Texas in Austin. I have never met a finer gentleman and know he will undoubtedly be missed by all.
Respectfully,
James B. Creed, M.D.
Janis Darville Conkle
March 31, 2012
I knew Chris in high school as a sweet, caring person. I salute the life he shared with others and send my sympathy to his
family.
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