"Lorie we will miss you. You were a wonderful neighbor."
In loving memory of
Loretta Rose Bray
November 3, 1955 - February 16, 2021
Loretta (Lori) Rose Bray, 65, unexpectedly went home to God Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Loretta was born November 3, 1955 in Clyde, NY to loving parents, Robert and Lela Stein. One of four children she was a mischievous little girl, losing half of her pointer finger in an infamous battle with a hand mixer while reaching for frosting. She may never have missed that finger, as she often still used it to tell people a thing or two!
In high school, Loretta met Jeffrey Young and married him right out of school. They started a family shortly afterwards, living in the Clyde area for 14 years. Loretta loved being a mom and homeschooling her three children. She was active at Christ Community Church for many years and eventually worked at Elim Bible Institute in Lima, NY. Loretta moved to Raleigh, NC in 1993 where she completed her Bachelor's Degree at Peace College. Her love for kids and interest in child development led her to teach special education for several years.
In 2002, Loretta married Bob Meeker, a CFNC call center counselor, in Raleigh, NC. They enjoyed church, swimming and playing board games with family. In 2012, Loretta and Bob moved to Ocala, Florida. Unfortunately, just five years later, Bob passed away. Through her heartbreak her faith never wavered and she continued to serve her local church, enjoying friends and caring for her mother, Leila.
In 2018, Loretta married Bobby Bray at a small ceremony in Ocala, Florida and they enjoyed each other's company since then. Loretta was involved in various projects, including serving the homeless and helping those in need. Loretta lived life fearlessly and committed to worshipping Jesus. She knew God and she wanted everyone else to know Him as well. Her lifelong love for worship music and playing piano led her to get involved in leading worship everywhere she went.
Loretta was preceded in death by her father, Robert Stein, her older brother Robert Stein Jr., her stepfather Robert Toft, and her second husband, Robert Meeker. She is survived by her husband, Bobby Bray Jr., her mother Leila Toft, brother, John Stein, sister Linda Mullin, and her three children, daughters Jennifer (Daniel) Bray, Julie (Jeremy) Barnes, and her son, Stacey Young. Her stepchildren Aidan and Maddie Bray. Her ten grandchildren, Asia, Eliyas, Aaliya, Gwyneth, Calista, Abigail, Kennedy, Vaden, Ilana, and Audric. She also had several nieces and nephews.
Her celebration of life will be held on March 6, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Roberts of Ocala Funerals and Cremation.
Tributes
"Lori, you were so much fun to meet when you and Bobby came by to meet me after your marriage. I saw the love between you and watched it grow. God had a plan for you both and we don't always understand what it was. But I know Bobby will always have you in his heart and be his inspiration . So dance and sing with the Lord knowing you were a good and faithful servant. We will meet again someday."
"Romans 12:19"
"So sorry to see my fun-loving cousin leave us so soon. "
"Dearest Jen, may you and your family find peace with this tragic loss. Our sincere condolences. The O?Kobrick family Frank, Catherine & Zoë."
"My dearest Lori, my sister-in-Christ - never in a million years did I ever think I would lose my best friend here in Ocala, FL My sincere condolences go out to Loris family and friends. There are no words that can take away the pain of Lori being gone. Lori was a true woman of God and loved to share the Gospel with everyone she met. She led a lot of people to the Lord. She was kind, sweet, FUN and was firm in her convictions. She loved to laugh and had a great sense of humor. She was loved by all. Lori and I spoke all the time and we got together often. I had never seen her so happy when she married Bobby. They complimented each others personalities and Lori always was excited about her next adventure with her husband. Prayers continue for Bobby at this time. You will be so missed Lori. I love you dearly and fly high with the Angels in the sky. I can hear you singing already!"
"I met Lori when she moved to my neighborhood with her second husband.She was a beautiful person inside and out. A very Godly woman. I always enjoyed waving and seeing her smile, I will never forget her and the times we shared. God bless the family sending prayers and love your way. I will never forget the last time I saw her. John and I shared that time together."
"Loretta, So many wonderful times from our high school years have come rushing back to me. Your surprise phone call and our amazing chat a few months ago is a memory I will cherish forever. Rest easy now with the angels. God speed my friend"
"Oh dear funny Loretta, why have you gone so soon? I miss our fun days back in school and love your beautiful spirit! May you keep them laughing in heaven! You will surely be missed! Love you, Sandy"