Thomas Bray Obituary
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila Bray; his daughter, Chelsea McGovern and her husband, Stephen McGovern; and children from a previous marriage, Heather Walters and Thomas "Tucker" Bray. He is also survived by his half-brother, Buddy Larson, along with his sister-in-law, Nadine Perlman, and brother-in-law, Joseph Fontana. Tommy leaves behind several loving nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.
Tommy was predeceased by his parents, Thomas James Bray and Adele VanNote; his sister, Eileen Partusch; and his half-brother, Edward Larson.
He worked at Fort Monmouth in Research and Development for 35 years. Tommy then worked for CACI in Maryland for 10 years until his official retirement.
Tommy had a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He was a master carpenter and loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. Every river and ocean he touched became part of his story. He loved sharing his passion for fishing with Sheila and Chelsea wherever they went, ensuring they experienced everything he loved about the water.
He had numerous hobbies, including boating, ice boating, stunt kites, shooting pool, and racing RC cars. He always cherished his time spent with family and friends. Tommy was a long-time member of the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club and was a past commodore, part of the Jersey Shore American Pool Players Association, and a trustee of the Long Branch Elks #742. He was previously Elk of the Year (2022–2023). Known for his easygoing, selfless nature and an infectious laugh, Tommy brought a good time wherever he went. He had a love for life and found joy in all the people and moments around him.
Visitation will be Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 2–4 and 6–8 pm at the Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, Ocean Township. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the funeral home. For condolences please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.
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236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, NJ 07755
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