Deborah Lee Mettie Hosier Bray, 69, of Apopka, Florida passed away on April 2, 2021 surrounded by her loving family at her home. Deborah is survived by her children, Donna Hosier of Apopka, Charles (& Denise) Hosier of Zellwood, Christopher (& Dawna) Hosier of Sorrento, Ronald (& Lyn) Bray of Altamonte Springs, Terri Bray (& Luke) Cotton of Ponce De Leon, Devon Bray and Justin Bray of De Funiak Springs; her Sisters, Mary Whitehead and Carol Mort; 22 Grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, a multitude of Nieces and Nephews, and countless Friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Peggy Mettie; her sister, Jackie Mettie Romnes; and stepson, David Bray.
Her career with Orange County Public School system began in 1992 as a
Bus driver and then she became a Para-professional in both the Physical Education and Special Education departments with Rock Springs Elementary and Wolf Lake Elementary, as well as with their before and after school programs, until 2014, when she retired.
She was known by many names: Mom, Nana, Grams, Mrs. Bray, Deb, Debra, Ethel, Lucy and Mammy-Jammy. Deborah loved flowers, the outdoors, visiting with family, friends and mostly her devoted canine companion, Rocky, also known as “kitty, kitty”. Red was her favorite color as evidenced by her lipsticks and nail polishes! Deborah specifically asked for no funeral attire; Colors are to be bright and bold in accordance with her wishes for her Celebration of Life.
Service
Memorial Service
Loomis Funeral Home Chapel
420 West Main Street, Apopka, Florida 32712
3:00pm
Paula Wilder says
Prayers for All of you. She will be greatly missed. She always had a smile for everyone. A very special lady. My heart goes out to all of you. Rest in Peace Debbie. I love You.
Sharon Geib says
Remembering fondly the wonderful Mrs. Bray and wishing you comfort. I had the privilege of working with her at Rock Springs and Wolf Lake Elementarys.
Anne Hoffstead says
My name is Anne Hoffstead, I met Deborah when she worked at Rock Springs Elementary, I called her Nana, sometimes Nana Bray because she always made you feel like family & if it’s one thing I know, Nana Bray LOVED HER FAMILY! she had the best personality, she was funny, caring, & told it like it is. One of the things I’ll miss about her is her smile & her hugs! & It didn’t matter how long we were apart, when we got together it felt like just yesterday, we had some really good time & now I’ll have really great memories, I love Nana Bray & I will miss you dearly, I cried for days in mourn of your loss, God has you now and will keep you till we see each other again, have a heavenly rest, love Anne🙏
Patrick and Loni Evans and family says
Our heart and prayers go out to your family. Our deepest condolences and prayers for you and your family.
Linda Patterson says
So sorry for your loss. I met Debbie for over 40 yrs. while staying with my Mom on Rolling Green Dr. & living next door to her sister Jackie. Many memories, Always a big friendly smile & hug! She loved her family very much. I know she is in Heaven now, no more sorrow or pain. See you again someday my friend.
Lisa McCarty says
Deb was one of my favorite people at WLE! Each morning we took a few minutes to share a cup of coffee and chat. Will always remember those days!
Arreta McKenzie says
I met Deborah at Wolf Lake Elementary we work together in the classroom. She was an amazing lady to be around. We became good friends . I will miss her.
My Prayers goes out to the family. Weeping may insure for a night but joy cometh in the morning.
Rolnetta Smith says
I am Rolnetta Smith, I met Deborah in 2009 when I begin work at Wolf Lake Elementary as Spec. Ed. Para. We shared many duties together and she was always very helpful and kind. Over time I grew to learn how much she was loved and respected by her WLE family and her special babies (students) whom adored her. Deborah was bold, kind,loyal and loved her students. I will miss that wonderful laugh of hers. To her family you were her world, her everything. My condolences to her family and friends. I pray you will find peace and strength in this time of sorrow and love and laughter in your treasured memories.
Paulette Schultz says
I first met Deborah so many years ago at Rock Springs. One thing I quickly learned about her was that her love for children knew no bounds! I loved hearing her laugh as I would walk through the cafeteria or wherever she was, totally enjoying her “babies!” I was honored to teach some of her grandchildren because I knew the only thing she loved more dearly than her school babies was her family. I am so sorry for your loss! Prayers & hugs!
With Love,
Paulette Schultz
Teresa Hale says
Aunt Debbie’s smile could light up a room. Her laughter was infectious. I’ll miss seeing her at family gatherings and hearing her tell me – and all my cousins, we are beautiful. Aunt Debbie was Beautiful inside and out. Donna, Chuck and Chris – I love you guys. Hugs!
Misty hawki s says
Aunt deb will miss u bunches we love u very much my heart goes out to your kids and grandbabies i am here for u all always love misty hawki s and family