Jeanette S. Bray

Jeanette Barbara Stashak Bray, age 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Woodridge, Illinois, surrounded by her family on August 30, 2026.

Jeanette was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 18, 1939, to Emilie and Anthony Stashak.

She was the beloved wife of the late C. Patrick Bray, devoted mother of Michelle, Karen, Stephen, and Michael (Anya), and treasured grandmother of Owen. She was the dear sister of the late Rosemary (Earl) Harrington, the late Emilie K. (Phil) Scroppo, the late Thomas E. Stashak, and the late Monica D. (Harlen) Janney. She was also a sister-in-law to Richard (Barbara) Bray and Timothy (Sharon) Bray, and a fond Aunt too many nieces and nephews

She attended St. Justin Martyr Elementary School and Mercy High School. Her Catholic faith was important to her from an early age, and for a time she was a novice with the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul.

Jeanette was fiercely protective of her children while also recognizing and nurturing the individual strengths of each of them. She devoted herself to raising her family and created a home filled with family, faith, food, and conversation. She was generous and welcomed all of the neighborhood kids with kindness and warmth…and, more often than not, late-night trips for snacks.

She was artistically gifted, and it showed in all things she touched. She also had a special connection with animals, particularly with dogs.

Jeanette spoke openly about her faith, but more importantly, she lived it every day. She was a parishioner of St. Dominic's in Bolingbrook and a member of the Legion of Mary. She was devoted to the Blessed Mother and understood her faith as a call to service. Jeanette quietly volunteered wherever she was needed, rarely staying around long enough to receive thanks.

Jeanette was devoted to her family and cared deeply for the people around her. She did not seek recognition for the things she did. She was happiest when she could be useful to the people she loved.

A funeral mass will be held in her honor at St. Dominic Catholic Church on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. (Rosary at 10:45 a.m.) Relatives and friends to meet at church.

Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

May she rest in the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and may the Blessed Mother Mary, to whom she was so devoted, welcome her home.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St Dominic Parish - Bolingbrook, appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium.