Gilbert Patrick Brady

In Loving Memory of SPC, Gilbert Patrick Brady, Jr.

Specialist, United States Army, Infantry Division

Gilbert Patrick Brady, Jr., age 57, an Iraq War veteran, passed away unexpectedly in Clark County, Oregon, on Thursday, July 17, 2025. He was a man of deep pride, with an unwavering love for his family and close friends. Among his greatest sources of pride were his beloved son, Rowyn, and his honorable service to his country as a Specialist in the United States Army.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert Patrick Brady, Sr. and Maureen McHugh Huber; his stepfather, Edward F. Huber; and his stepbrother, Edward A. Huber.

He is survived by his son, Rowyn; his sisters, Catherine Collins and her husband Brian, and Jacqueline Kennedy and her husband Joe; his niece, Rebecca Engler Collins; and his nephews, Ryan and Kevin Kennedy.

Gilbert was deeply loved and supported by his extended Huber step-family, who played an important and lasting role in his life: Barbara Ensign and her husband Chet; Anne Marie Resor and her husband Ed; Katie Parker and her husband Jeff; Lulu Brooks and her husband Peter; Mary Liz Huber; William Huber and his wife Sandy; George Huber and his wife Christine; John Michael Huber; and Mary Teresa Huber.



Gilbert wore many hats over the years. A talented baseball player like his father, he had aspirations for the major leagues but was sidelined by injury. A gifted writer like his mother, Gilbert worked in the film industry in Wilmington, North Carolina, and briefly became a journalist in Jackson, Wyoming. He married, moved to Oregon and welcomed a son, Rowyn Marcello Brady.

Shortly after his son's birth, Gilbert joined the Oregon National Guard and later deployed to Iraq as a U.S. Army Reservist with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the "Jungleers." During his deployment, he was promoted to Specialist and assigned to one of the most sensitive areas in the region. His unit was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation by the President of the United States-an honor Gilbert proudly shared.

Upon returning home, Gilbert earned his B.S. in Psychology and an M.S. in Applied Psychology from Portland State University. As a graduate assistant, he focused on public and occupational health, with a deep interest in the challenges faced by returning veterans. He created and analyzed surveys, prepared manuscripts for publication, and gave guest lectures on military occupational health, reintegration, and behavioral genetics. He later worked as an outreach screener for a VA-funded housing and crisis intervention program.

His master's thesis and later work as a Senior Research Analyst focused on the unique challenges faced by Army Reservists-higher rates of unemployment, mental health struggles, and the loss of structure and support. These were not just academic concerns for Gilbert; they were personal. Even as he battled health issues related to his own service, he remained committed to advocating for others and improving access to care for fellow veterans.

Gilbert's love extended beyond his families. During a transitional time in his life, he formed a close bond with Jaimie Morgan and became a loving, steady presence in the lives of her children-Serena, Sydnie, and Kiraney. His loyal dog Leyla, truly this man's best friend, will continue to be cared for by the family.

Gilbert was also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of his friend James McGill, who stood by him through many of life's challenges.

Gilbert lived with purpose and heart. His gentle, playful spirit made him especially beloved by kids. Though his battles were many, his love for others remained his guiding light. He served with honor, and loved without limits, and lived grounded in what he believed was right. His spirit will endure in the lives he touched and the causes he championed.

A Military burial service with honors will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, August 29th, at Willamette National Cemetery. Afterwards the families will hold a celebration of Life at a location near Willamette National Cemetery. Please arrive at the cemetery office no later than 9:45 am for an escort to the burial site.

In lieu of flower, donations can be made to The Tunnel to Towers Foundation in his memory:

https://dogood.t2t.org/IMOGilbertPatrickBrady



The families of Gilbert wish to extend our sincere love and gratitude to all who have supported us through this difficult time.