Judith Anita Bray, affectionately known to many as Judy, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, at the age of 86 at Gaither Suites at West Park in her hometown of Paducah, Kentucky. Born on July 11, 1938, in Paducah to her late parents James Raymond and Dorothy Ella Major Bray. Judy's life was marked by a profound dedication to music, art, education, and service to her community.
A proud 1956 graduate of Paducah Tilghman High School, Judy's passion for the arts led her to pursue further education at Murray State University. There, she earned a bachelor's degree in music and nearly completed her master's in art, setting the stage for a distinguished career in education. For 32 years, Judy was a beloved music, band, and art teacher at Franklin Elementary School in Massac County, Illinois. Her influence extended to Jefferson and Central elementary schools, where she nurtured the talents and creativity of countless students.
Judy's commitment to her faith was equally steadfast. A lifelong member of Grace Episcopal Church in Paducah, she began playing the church organ at the tender age of 12 and playing her first wedding at the age of 17. Her musical gifts and leadership abilities soon saw her assume the role of choirmaster at the age of 22. Judy served her church with unwavering devotion, continuing in both positions until her retirement after an impressive 62 years. Judy was a cast member of many theatrical and stage productions in Western Kentucky. Judy also served as music director for three Market House Theatre shows.
Her contributions to her community were recognized with prestigious honors, including being twice named a Kentucky Colonel. In 2017, Judy was bestowed the title of Duchess of Paducah, a testament to her impact on the city she loved so dearly. In addition to her educational and religious commitments, Judy was a successful entrepreneur. For 27 years, she owned and operated the Fleur de Lis Antiques and Collectibles shop, where she shared her keen eye for beauty and history with patrons and friends alike. In the evenings after she closed her shop, very often she would go around the corner to Max’s Brick Oven where she was a part of a congenial group of friends that gathered almost nightly. She could also be found playing piano at Lower Town’s Ninth Street House Restaurant most weekend nights.
Judy's zest for life was infectious, and she was known for her dynamic personality and great sense of humor. Even in her later years when she retired into assisted living at Gaither Suites at West Park she remained active and engaged, playing the piano, enjoying a game of bingo, or participating in church activities. She had a natural ability to connect with people, and her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her. As we remember Judy, we celebrate a life lived with passion, generosity, and grace. Her legacy as an educator, artist, musician, and community servant will continue to resonate through the lives she touched. Judy Bray's melody will forever play in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her. Her memory will be cherished, and her life celebrated as an example of a life well lived. Judy's departure leaves a void in the fabric of the Paducah community, but her spirit remains a guiding light for all who aspire to make the world a more beautiful and harmonious place.
Judy is survived by three first cousins, John Grant Major of Virginia Beach, VA, Susan Elizabeth Major Golightly of Flagstaff, AZ, and Laura Katherine Major Goldfarb of Kalama, WA; and numerous distant cousins representing the Major, Young, Chism, Means and Swift families.
A memorial service celebrating Judy’s life will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at the Grace Episcopal Church of Paducah with The Reverend Charles Uhlik officiating. A visitation time will precede the service from 10:00-11:00 AM. A live stream of Judy’s memorial service will be found by searching on Facebook Grace Episcopal Church of Paducah and will be available to view for 30 days following the service.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of any gifts in remembrance of Judy to the Grace Episcopal Church Choir Fund, 820 Broadway St. Paducah, KY 42001. Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah are serving the family. Please share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
