Steven L Bray passed from this life Sunday, April 10, 2022 in Checotah, OK at the age of 57. He was born September 24, 1965 in DeQueen, AR the son of Jack and Jo Ann (Freeney) Bray.
Steve started his career with ODWC as a summer aide working for the SW Region at the Manning State Fish Hatchery in 1987. He spent 2 years there performing seasonal tasks. From there he moved to the Bryon State Fish Hatchery starting as a Bio Aide and advancing to Hatchery Assistant in 1991. There he worked in intensive culture producing species such as hybrid striped bass and saugeye. In 1993, Steve moved to the Durant State Fish Hatchery (DSFH), where he spent the next 10 years. Along the way, Steve also built strong friendships and lasting memories. Steve began a new phase of his life working in Wildlife Division. He held a particular fondness for the controlled hunts held on Okmulgee GMA. He loved to cook food for the hunters, especially the youth. Steve would lay out a full spread. This would also give him time to visit with the adults and kids, building relationships that kept them applying for the hunts each year. Steve’s long career with ODWC allowed him to make many friends and memories. Any conversation with him would reveal that he was proud to be an employee and was loyal to the Department. The decision to retire was challenging as Steve knew what a great position he would leave behind.
Steve enjoyed fishing and hunting and time spent with his family. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mae and George Bray, L and Lillie Freeney; his father, Jack Bray; uncle, Jim Freeney and niece, Katelyn Bray.
Steve leaves to forever cherish his memory his wife, Ursula Bray; mother, JoAnn Bray; brother, Jimmy Bray and wife, Wilda; nieces, Jessica Bray and Rebecca Bray; nephew, Zachary Bray; a host of family and a multitude of friends.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday evening at Bunch-Singleton Funeral Home Chapel
Funeral Services are set for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Broken Bow Church of Christ with Tom Williams officiating. Interment to follow at Crown Hill Cemetery, Broken Bow, OK.
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