Tracy McBrayer

Tracy Firkins McBrayer, 59, of Bowling Green, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her home on February 3, 2026, following a courageous three-year battle with ALS. Surrounded by love, Tracy entered eternal rest with the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.

She was born on September 15, 1966, in Glasgow, KY, to James Robert Firkins and Jerry Kaye Firkins Taylor. Tracy was a proud graduate of Barren County High School, Class of 1984, and Western Kentucky University, where her calling to serve others began to take shape.

Tracy devoted her professional life to caring for people. As a dedicated educator, she poured her heart into helping students grow and succeed. She also served as an adoption placement coordinator, walking alongside hopeful parents and playing a meaningful role in building families-work that reflected her deep belief in love, compassion, and purpose.

Above all else, Tracy loved fiercely. A woman of deep and abiding faith, she loved Jesus wholeheartedly and sought to reflect His light, grace, and compassion to everyone she encountered. Her family was her greatest joy. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Kent McBrayer, her constant companion and faithful partner in life, and the heart of her family as a mother to Anne Claire Duvall (Jay) and Ashton McBrayer (Mac), loving them unconditionally and faithfully. She is also survived by her beloved brother, Scott Firkins, who shared with her a lifelong bond of love, laughter, and unwavering support. Her pride and delight were her grandchildren, Adleigh and Andy Cook, whom she adored beyond measure. She wore the cherished title of "Lee Lee" with immense pride and was a constant, unwavering presence in their lives.

Tracy also shared a profound love for animals. She is survived by her beloved furry companions, Skipper, Coco, and Crosby, who brought her comfort and companionship. She was preceded in death by her treasured furbabies Watson, Murphy, Sallie, Suzie, and Sofie. Tracy was a passionate advocate for animals, especially the most vulnerable, and was deeply involved in rescue and awareness efforts. Many would say-affectionately-that she loved animals more than some people, and she embraced that truth with a smile.

Tracy was preceded in death by her father, James Robert Firkins, her mother, Jerry Kaye Taylor, her step-father, Howard Taylor, and her parents-in-law, Raymond and Geraldine McBrayer.

In addition to family members named above, Tracy is also survived by her step-mother, Nancy Firkins, her step-siblings, Stephanie London, Amanda Medley, Brian Taylor, Emily Taylor, and Micah Taylor, and an aunt, Kathy Simpson.

Tracy loved deeply, gave generously, and lived intentionally. She had a rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and loved, and her impact will continue to ripple through the many lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held at J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel. Visitation will be Friday, February 6th, 3-8PM, continued on Saturday at 9AM with a service in the chapel at 10AM, burial to follow at 11AM at Bowling Green Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bowling Green–Warren County Humane Society or Hospice of Southern Kentucky.

Services are entrusted in J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel.