Kenneth W. Bray

BISMARCK — Kenneth Wayne Bray, 84, of Bismarck, Ark., passed away Friday, Feb. 10, 2023, at Twin Rivers Nursing and Rehab in Arkadelphia, Ark.

He was born May 3, 1938, to the late Roy and Gladys Bray.

He served as a pastor for 40 years, and he retired from the United States Postal Service. He also served in the United States National Guard. He served on many boards and committees throughout his life to support and better the lives of others. He loved hunting and spending time with his family. He had a love and passion for serving God, mission work and spreading the word of God.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his first wife of 43 years, Marilyn Sue Bray; his two brothers, Herschel Bray and Roy Bray Jr.; and one sister, Irene Gaither.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Elaine of Poyen; his two sons, Tim Bray, of Malvern and Jarrod (Shelly) Bray, of Arkadelphia; one daughter, Shelby (Braeden) Dalton, of Benton; two stepsons, Joshua and Caleb; two stepdaughters, Mindy and Amanda; 17 grandchildren; one brother, Charles (Barbara) Bray; one sister, Pat Launius; and many special nieces and nephews.

Kenneth’s visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. today, Feb. 12, 2023, at Ruggles-wilcox Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.

His funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, 2023, at Bismarck Missionary Baptist Church, with Brother Bernard Strother and Brother Brad Warren officiating.

Burial will follow at Bismarck Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Tracey Gaither, Terry Eason, Toby Eason, Brian Launius, Keith Launius, Mitchell Strother, Jonathan Strother, Braeden Dalton and Robbie Holter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bismarck Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 94, Bismarck, AR 71929.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ruggles-wilcox Funeral Home, 517 Clay St., Arkadelphia, AR 71923.