Mel Bray

1939 - 2026

Mel Bray
With deep sadness we announce the passing of a treasured family member, Mel Bray on January 21st, 2026, at the age of 86. A more affable, generous, and caring man would be hard to find!
Mel was born on September 18th, 1939, in Henning, TN, to Melba Olds and Cyrus Lawson Bray. One of 6 children, he came from humble beginnings in rural TN, without electricity or plumbing. As a youth, he worked long hours alongside his family on their farm- he told of picking and hauling cotton as a young boy to help put food on the table, yet there were times when the family went hungry. Thus, resilience, determination, and gratitude became the backbone of Mel's life journey.
Mel graduated from Harrison Chilhowee Academy, and with sights on a better life, Mel enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He proudly served his country for 21 years, including two tours in Vietnam. During his naval career, he was awarded a scholarship to attend Vanderbilt University and graduated in 1967, with a degree in electrical engineering. He later received his MBA from RPI. At that time, a good friend introduced him to his future wife, the love of his life, Deirdre (Sheil). They were devoted to each other and were married for 43 years until her passing in 2018. Mel retired from the Navy as a Lt. Cmdr. in 1977, and was later employed at Holston Defense, Goodyear Atomic, Foxborough, Corning Glass, and Baran Institute.
Mel maintained lasting friendships from his Navy days, and was infamous within the VA facilities, always sharing his special brand of humor. He made instant friends wherever he went. He was known for his gift of gab, his sharp wit, his abundant jokes and one-liners. He had an easy charm that people were drawn to, and a special way of making people feel seen and valued. Reaching out to others is what made Mel tick; that was his mission in life.
Giving back was also an essential part of Mel's life. He was a member of Saint Mary's Church, the Knights of Columbus, Veteran organizations DAV, FRA, MOAA. Having experienced hunger as a child, he was a committed supporter of Portland Food Bank, Amazing Grace, St. Vincent de Paul.
Mel loved music, especially country music, particularly his much-admired philanthropist Dolly Parton. He enjoyed playing his guitars, frequenting local eateries (where everyone knew his name!), visiting Sanibel Island, which he enjoyed with his wife, and of course, anything to do with his family and friends, particularly his cherished grandchildren, whom he loved to entertain with antics!
Mel was immensely grateful for the people in his life, among whom were his veteran buddies that he valued so much. In recent years, he had a very special connection to Molly and Lily, who were close to his heart, Peg and Rich, his loving and dedicated live-in family, his faithful friend, Deacon Dana, and his beloved caregiver, Giselle, who he delighted in entertaining with his endless banter and humor. Each of these people brought him immeasurable joy and companionship. The family is deeply grateful for their unwavering love and commitment to Mel.
Mel leaves his cherished family: his son, Keith and wife, LIz, and his daughter, Debbie Thomas (TN). He also leaves his brother, Gil Bray, and wife, Verlene (TN). Sisters-in-law, Keavy Peterson, Maura Sheil-Hughes, Natalie Sheil, Wendy Sheil; brothers-in-law, Ralph Peterson, Michael Sheil, Jay Sheil. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren, Areia Bray and Baby Bray, due in Sept., Ava and Audrey Gallant, Lexi and Rosie Luciuk, Evan Thomas wife, Sara; and great-granddaughter, Gracie; and a host of very loved nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and wife, Deirdre, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Virginia Holmberg; his daughter-in-law, Lyra Luciuk Bray; and his siblings, Colleen, Marvin, Betty Larkey, and Robbie McDaniel.
Mel was everyone's friend and a one-of-a-kind guy! His presence will be deeply missed. We are honored to have called him ours. May his memory, along with his famous jokes, bring comfort and smiles to all who knew him and loved him.
There are no calling hours. The Funeral Liturgy will be held on Saturday, March 14, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Church, Portland, with a reception for family and friends following the service. Burial and a "Celebration of Life" will take place in the spring, at a date to be announced.
To share memories or express condolences online, please use the link: https://neptunesociety.com/obituaries10988788 .
Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Portland Food Bank, 7 Waverly Ave., Portland, or St. Mary Church, 45 Freestone Ave., Portland, CT 06480.