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Joe Cutajar
Jane and family, without a doubt I would not be where I am today had it not been for Norman taking a chance on me. He gave me my shot as one of his real estate agents and it changed my life for the better. I never forgot that he went to bat for me and I never will forget. God bless him and all of you.
Jessica Maples
Dear Melinda, Jane and Ben, as you know, I am so sorry for your loss, but I’m so grateful that your sweet husband and father is with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Norman was an exemplary man in life. He was an incredible businessman, and a wonderful man of faith. My fondest memories are through the eyes of a child when I would come spend the night with Melinda. Norman would always greet me with a hearty hello and a big welcome. I’m so grateful to God that my best friend had such an amazing dad. Much love to all three of you.
Susanne Brisach
Dear Jane and family, I am so sorry to read of Norman's passing. I know the last few years have been hard for him and that he is in a better place. My heart goes out to you for your loss. I enjoyed working for Norman, I'll always remember that, when I first went to work for the Company, I was promised a computer. When it hadn't arrived after a couple of weeks, I inquired about it. Norman said, "well, it's coming , but we are waiting for the delivery from Toys R Us!!
James Morton Jr
My heart goes out to all of Norman's family. He touched the heart of everyone he met, especially me and my family. Heaven gained a very loving and caring man. We will miss him very much!
Denise Creech
Melinda and family,I am so sorry for your loss. Your father was truly an inspiration and instilled your love of music and teaching. May the loving hands of God hold you and your family over the next few months. Your father led an incredible life and left a beautiful legacy for family, community and world.
S. Norman Bray
2023-01-30
S. Norman Bray, 79 of Fernandina Beach, FL passed away on January 30, 2023 at the Jane and Bill Warner Center for Caring.
Norman was born on January 26, 1944 in Bishop, GA to the late Leroy and Mary Bray. He grew up in Athens, GA and graduated from Athens High School in 1962.
In 1967 he graduated with a BBA from the University of Georgia (GO DAWGS!) at which time he entered the United States Army and served a tour in Vietnam. Also, in 1967 he married his wife of 55 years, Jane Pinkerton of Franklin, TN. After serving in the United States Army, he and his wife returned to Athens, GA and he was enrolled in the University of Georgia Graduate School.
In 1972 he accepted a job opportunity with the young Sea Pines Company on Hilton Head Island, SC. This was the beginning of his long career in resort and real estate development. In 1990, former Sea Pines Company colleague and friend, Jack Healan, invited Norman to become the Executive Vice President of The Amelia Island Company. He worked at the Amelia Island Company until he retired in 2011.
He was the first ever Commissioner from Nassau County to be appointed by the governor to F.I.N.D. (Florida Inland Navigation District). He served in this role for eight years.
Norman was an avid fisherman, hunter, and golfer. He loved to make people laugh, share his beautiful voice and strum his tenor guitar. On Hilton Head Island he enjoyed being a member of a Barbershop quartet and community theatre. Since a young boy, church music was always an important part of expressing his faith. He proudly served the Lord by sharing his talents in church choirs and as a soloist. He was honored to be invited to sing at various ceremonies. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Fernandina Beach, Florida.
Norman leaves behind his spouse Jane; two children, Melinda of Hilton Head Island, SC and Ben and his wife, Patty of Jacksonville, FL. He was blessed with four grandsons: Brayden Smith and wife Autumn, Connor Smith, Evan Bray and Davis Bray.
A celebration of his life will held be at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to First Baptist Church of Fernandina Beach Building Fund, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.
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