Gregory L Bray

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gregory L. Bray, a beloved artist and member of the Chicago art community. Greg departed this life on August 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and inspiration. Born on July 20, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Greg spent his lifetime enriching the world with his extraordinary artistic talents. Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Ruth Bray and his sister, Sarah Bray. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, James and LaVerne Bray; his nephew and his wife, Patrick and Clorinda Bray; and his great-nephews, Isiah, Patrick and Tyler Bray. Educated in the arts, Greg graduated from Waller High School in Chicago (now known as Lincoln Park High School) before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Painting and Design from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. From an early age, it was clear that Greg's passion for art was boundless. He began experimenting with design and graphics in high school, even designing the cover of his graduating class yearbook. Greg's approach to art led him to work in multiple mediums and explore alternative forms of graphic expression. A visionary artist, Greg never shied away from exploring new mediums and techniques, always striving to deliver his message through art. Greg's remarkable talent did not go unnoticed. His art is proudly displayed in numerous public and private collections, and his innovative collages earned him prestigious accolades, including being a two-time recipient of the Pollock-Krasner Award from 1986 to 1989 in New York, NY. His illustrious career includes awards and residency recognition from many celebrated arts organizations, including but not limited to Standard Oil Collection, Chappell, Change, and the Artist Fellowship, etc. In 2020, Greg was one of only 12 artists selected from a pool of 428 applicants to receive the esteemed Gottlieb Foundation Individual Support Grant. His works have also been presented in major retail stores window and indoor Christmas displays supporting the stores holiday themes. Beyond his artistic achievements, Greg was known for his determination and generosity of spirit. He faced his long illness with courage. A memorial service to honor Greg's life and legacy will be held on September 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Cage Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, located at 7651 S Jeffery Blvd, Chicago, IL 60649. Greg will be deeply missed but eternally remembered for his boundless creativity, his unwavering dedication to the arts, and his profound impact on the lives of those around him in the art world. May his soul rest in peace. He wanted to be remembered as GREG BRAY "ARTIST"