Ira Leonard "Bert" Bray, 99, of Gainesville, Ga. passed away peacefully, in his sleep, on Friday, May 3, 2024.  Born April 12, 1925 the Columbus, Ga. native graduated from Jordan High School. He continued his education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical College, the University of Georgia with a Forestry Science Degree and Masters in Forestry from the Syracuse University. Bert proudly served his country in the US Army in WWII as a communications operator and engineer, 1261st ECB, Europe. There were many memorable summers spent in Jesup and he was active in the Episcopal Church. Forestry became his life-long career working for the U.S. Forest Service in several states. The avid outdoorsman (camping, fishing, hiking) loved to dance, garden and traveled the world. KA4JNB was also an accomplished HAM radio operator. He loved life and adventure, and was endlessly curious about the world around him. His wife and mother of his children, Tena Avalene Burns Bray preceded him in death.

Survivors are his wife of 36 years, Betty Dyson McNutt Bray of Gainesville; 4 sons, David (Patti) Bray, Frank (Lynn) Bray, Glenn (Kathy) Bray and James (Ramona) Bray; step-daughter, Diane (Tony) McNutt-Perrin; 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 2 PM Friday, May 10, 2024 at Rinehart Chapel with Father Nathan Wilson officiating. Interment will follow in the Jesup City Cemetery with military honors.  Active pallbearers will be his family.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.