Bray Family Genealogy & History

Deanne Bray, an accomplished American actress born deaf, is celebrated for her role as Sue Thomas in "Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye" and her recurring role as Emma Coolidge on "Heroes." Bray, also known as Deanne Bray-Kotsur, is an advocate for early childhood education for deaf children and serves as a spokesperson for Language Equality and Acquisition for Deaf Kids (LEAD-K). Her notable contributions extend to co-hosting the DVD "Your Pregnancy: What To Expect," aimed at supporting pregnant deaf and hard of hearing women. Bray holds a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in sign language education, showcasing her commitment to educational pursuits.

Deanne Bray was born in Canoga Park, Los Angeles, and raised primarily by her father, who had basic ASL skills, while her mother chose not to learn sign language. Her educational journey included attending the Washington State School for the Deaf, where she was supported in developing her bilingual abilities in both American and British Sign Language. Bray is married to Troy Kotsur, the first deaf male actor to win an Academy Award, and they have a daughter, Kyra Monique Kotsur.

Robert E. Bray was a prolific American film and television actor renowned for his role as forest ranger Corey Stuart in the CBS series "Lassie." Born on October 23, 1917, in Kalispell, Montana, Bray also starred in "Stagecoach West" and portrayed the iconic detective Mike Hammer in the film adaptation of "My Gun Is Quick" (1957). His career spanned various genres, with notable appearances in "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, ultimately reaching the rank of Master Sergeant.

Stephen Pate Bray, born December 23, 1956, is a renowned American songwriter, drummer, and record producer, celebrated for his collaborations with Madonna and his role in the band Breakfast Club. His career highlights include winning a Grammy Award in 2017 for the Best Musical Theater Album of the Tony Award-winning revival of The Color Purple. Bray's collaboration with Madonna resulted in several iconic 1980s hits, contributing significantly to her albums Like a Virgin and Like a Prayer. He also made a notable Broadway debut in 2005 as a composer and lyricist for The Color Purple. Bray owns Saturn Sound recording studios and the Soultone Records label, underscoring his influence in the music industry.

Bray resides in Studio City, California, with his wife, Stephanie Allain, a movie producer known for films like Hustle & Flow and Black Snake Moan. His brother, Kevin Bray, is a music video director, adding to the creative legacy of his family. The source does not provide further details about Bray's parents or family origins.

Steve Bray, born Steven Nicholas Bray on June 26, 1969, in South Wales, is a prominent British activist known for his fervent protests against Brexit. Dubbed the "Stop Brexit Man," Bray gained attention in 2018 and 2019 for his daily demonstrations at College Green, Westminster, against the UK's withdrawal from the EU. A former British Army serviceman and numismatist, Bray leveraged creative protest techniques, like appearing in live TV broadcasts and using loudspeakers, to convey his anti-Brexit message. He also ran as a Liberal Democrat candidate in the 2019 general election. His activism continued post-Brexit, targeting the Conservative government and drawing international recognition.