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James Dray Sr.
1931 - 2020
James Dray Sr.
1931 - 2020
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James Dray Obituary
Jim was a Korean War veteran of the U.S. Navy. After his military service he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of MD and his Master's degree from Catholic University. Jim and Cynthia resided in Annapolis, MD, where they raised their family and Jim had a long career as a Marine Engineer with the Navy Bureau of Ships/Naval Sea Systems Command and at the David W. Taylor Naval Ship Research & Development Center.
Jim and Cynthia moved to the Myersville/Hagerstown area after retirement, where they spent time enjoying family, raising goats and chickens, and being active in their church. Jim was the loving and generous heart of his family and will be sorely missed.
In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his children: James "Jim" Dray, Jr. (Pam), Diane Dray, and Paul Dray (Sophie), grandchildren: Sara Randall (Will), Christopher Dray (Ashley), Krista Geiger (Ryan), Madeleine Benda, Kathleen Yaga (Dylan), Kaitlyn Adamecz, Robert Dray, Mary Dray, Anthony Benda, and Gabrielle Benda, nine great-grandchildren, a sister, Ila Beierman, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Dray, and two siblings.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Inurnment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Myersville Church of the Brethren PO Box 403 Myersville, MD 21773. Online condolences may be shared at www.keeneybasford.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Madeleine Benda
August 7, 2025
Miss you more and more! It’s been 5 years and I still think about you every day!
Guylene & John Smetzer
January 1, 2021
Cynthia and family,
John and I send you our deepest sympathy in the loss of Jim. Our Wednesday night Bible studies will never be the same without Jim's smile and his knowledge and insight of the scriptures . His knowledge was so vast, not only in scripture but in the world around us. John loved picking his brain and discussing so many issues with him. He was a mentor but very humble.
Godspeed Jim, until we met you on Heaven's shore where you and John can sit for eternity in fellowship.
All our Love Cynthia,
John & Guylene Smetzer
Madeleine Benda
December 30, 2020
Your presence and energy was inspiring and amazing. Thank you from being the rock of our family. Beach trips, the Annapolis house, 4th of july parties, holidays, and getting sushi with you. You will always be in my mind and heart with amazing memories you built with your children and grandchildren. You will be greatly missed
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Charles Mobley
December 29, 2020
James F. Dray was a true hero of America's forgotten victory the Korean War. Jim was a faithful member of Antietam Chapter 312 Korean War Veterans Association. We veterans condole with you on your loss.
Charles L, Mobley, Jr. Past Commander
Pat and John Goodwin
December 29, 2020
John and I send our deepest sympathy to Cynthia and especially our Jim who is a very special brother in law!! We truly loved your Dad, he was a very good man and will be missed by many. So many great memories especially those on Dray Mountain! Our love to all!❤ Patsy and John
John Witkoski
December 29, 2020
I worked for Jim as a young technician way back in the late 70s at David Taylor Naval Ship R&D Center. He was a great boss who always took the time to listen to your concerns. We still use the Dray Family crab dip recipe on special occasions.
Kym Densel Brown
December 28, 2020
Jim and Pam - We went to Frostburg together and I just wanted to express my condolences on your family’s loss.
Dawn Rittner
December 28, 2020
I am so very sorry for your loss. May your memories always be a source of comfort.
"He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much." – Bessie Anderson Stanley
Yaga
December 28, 2020
Grandaddy, you were always such a calming presence in so many of my happiest memories. You adored your family and always did what was best for them. You've left behind such an admirable legacy and earned the love and respect of many. Wherever we end up after life, I hope you're reaping a very fitting reward. I will always love and miss you.
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