Edgar Green Bray Jr.

Chief Edgar G. Bray, Jr., often called “Buddy” by his family and friends, 90, died August 4, 2022, in the comfort of his home in Raymond, MS, of natural causes.  Buddy was born, the third child of Edgar and Bevis Thigpen Bray, February 13, 1932 in Raymond, MS, where he attended Raymond High School and Hinds Community College. Chief Bray devoted his adult life to serving the City of Jackson and its citizens.  He joined the City of Jackson’s Fire Department in 1954, where his work ethic and determination, led him to be named as Fire Chief in 1975.  Chief Bray continued to serve in that position until his retirement in 1986. 

While Chief, he modernized the Jackson Fire Department to become one of the best in the country.  After retirement the Chief spent his days with his grandchildren or visiting the fire stations to play cards or dominos.  Once the grandchildren were grown and no more football or baseball games were to be played he used his Master Craftsman Woodworking skills to create one of a kind milled items for houses with Frierson Building Supply and Lumber. In addition, Buddy enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting rabbits and training award winning field trial beagles.  

Chief Bray is survived by his wife of 73 years, Jean, his son Steve E. Bray (Marilyn) and his daughter Janet Bray Hughes (Charles).  His grandchildren Steven E. Bray (Katy), Blakeney Bray Wells, and Daniel C. Hughes (Amanda).  His great grandchildren Parker J. Bray, Peyton E. Bray, Sadie Kate Bray, Addison C. Hughes, and Harper Ridge Wells.  He is also survived by two sisters, Gertrude Thigpen Wilbourn and Francis Thigpen Rice.  Preceding him in death were his parents Edgar and Bevis Thigpen Bray and his sister Ruby Thigpen Knight.

Visitation will be held at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram on Sunday, August 7, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held Monday, August 8, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church, 13628 Midway Road, Terry, MS 39170.