Marion Bray

Marion Otis Bray, 91, of Buffalo Grove, IL, formerly of Memphis, TN passed away on September 21, 2024. Devoted daughter of the late Alfred and Otis Bailey. Beloved sister of the late Stella (Robert) Crone and the late Alfred (Mary Ann) Bailey Jr. Loving mother of James (Jeannie) Bray, Mark (April) Bray, Kathleen Donavon (Carl Nelson), and Erin (John) Thunholm. Cherished grandmother to Jennifer (Michael) Slago, Jonathan (Susannah) Bray, Jacqueline (David) Tukesbrey, Nicholas Bray, Zachary (Brianna Hernandez) Bray, Amanda (Justin) Douglas, Joseph Thunholm, Christian Thunholm and Teagan Thunholm. Proud great grandmother to Jacob, Andrew, Christian, Sophia, Alexander, Benjamin, Lucille, Silas, and Alice. Caring aunt to many nieces and nephews. She was a graduate of St. Agnes Academy and attended Memphis State where she was a Phi Mu sorority sister. A southern lady at heart, she was a friend to many. She was affectionately known as “Ditty” and “Baby Dear” to friends and family she held close throughout her life in Memphis. She was bestowed with a nickname once again, when she was lovingly given the name “Odie” by her son-in-law. She had a long and rewarding career in the telecommunications industry for over 40 years. She was promoted numerous times and retired from Centel Corporation as a Corporate Trainer. She joined her former Centel colleagues at monthly luncheons, maintaining those friendships until the end. She enjoyed playing card games and Mah-Jongg with her friends, antiquing, traveling, and theater. She had keen eye for decorating and as a collector of antiques, she enjoyed making her house a home. She was a talented seamstress and would happily make anything knitted or crocheted for those special gifts to others. Spending time with her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy. She will be missed as a mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, mentor and friend. 

At her request, she will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery with her parents in Memphis, TN in a private family ceremony.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers and cards, you can make a memorial contribution to Misericordia Home which held a special place in her heart.

https://www.misericordia.com/giving/donate-online/

Arrangements entrusted with Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL.