Darren James Bray

Like a fabled story of the cat with nine lives, Darren himself seemed to have at least ten. Through every challenge life brought him, he showed resilience, humor, and strength. Ultimately, the cancer he courageously fought proved too much, and Darren James Bray passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on September 28, 2025.
He was born February 5, 1964 in Provo, Utah to Robert and Connie Bray. At a young age, Darren's family moved to Santa Barbara, California, where his brother Jeff taught him to surf –a pastime that became one of his greatest joys. He loved the sun and the ocean. He later split his time between the vast Pacific Ocean, living in Hawaii for a few years and mastering the rugged Rocky Mountains after his family returned to Utah in 1977, where he discovered a love for hunting and the outdoors.
Darren worked as a painter and later as a wallpaper hanger. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and riding dirt bikes with friends and family.
In 1991, Darren married Lisa Germer, and together they had two children, Tyler and Tahnee. After Lisa's passing in 2000, Darren dedicated himself to raising his children. During this time, he developed a passion for riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, as well as an interest in computers, music, and sports card collecting. He loved watching football, especially cheering for the Minnesota Vikings- and soccer. More than anything, Darren cherished time with his granddaughters, Willow and Oaklee, whether gardening, splashing in the water, or teaching them how to ride bikes and scooters.
In 2002, Darren met Dianne, and the two built a life together from 2003 until his passing. They were married on April 24, 2024.
Darren is survived by his wife, Dianne Bray; his children Tyler (Rose) Bray, Aimee LeVitre, and Tahnee Bray; and his beloved granddaughters, Willow and Oaklee Callies, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his siblings Jeff (Shelly) Bray of St. George, UT; Robyn Bray of Boise, ID; and Ryan (Sharon) Bray of Stansbury Park, UT. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Connie Bray.
An open house in Darren's honor will be held at his home, the place he loved most. As many know, if you wanted to see Darren, you knew you had to come to him. The open house will be on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at 4621 South 600 East, Murray, Utah. Parking is limited; please park on the street or at the church parking lot located a few houses down.
Darren lived a life full of grit, laughter, and love, seemingly with more than nine lives to spend. Though his last battle was too much, his strength and spirit will live on in the family and friends who love him.