Memorial

Pamela Marie Braye was born on August 31st, 1962, to Don & Vi Braye in Liberal Kansas. She went home to our Lord on May 14th, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald Braye, Vaneta Braye, sister Peggy Newmire and nephew Andrew George and brother – in –Law Ron Newmire 

Survivors include twin sister Patricia (Steve) Cavanaugh, brothers Phil (Louanne) Neville & Gene (Pat) Neville. She loved and laughed with her nieces & nephews: Alex & Kate Cavanaugh, Graig (Lisa) Neville, Kirk Neville, DiAndré Neville, Mike Conlon, Nicole (Ross) Ryan, Misty (Jeff) Bunn, Bret (Michelle) George and Chris George. She loved her cousins, aunts, uncles and grandnieces /nephews. 

Pam was the twin that was smaller in size and struggled to come to into the world, thus her development of special needs. Here is what made her special at the core, she was easy to please. She only wanted a few things in life: 2 tacos, a Pepsi, a few games of UNO and the Hawkeye’s! She loved bowling, playing softball and won many gold medals at Special Olympics. She would have won a medal for a walking event if her sister (Patricia- I own this) / niece/ nephew had not cheered and she ran- thus disqualified she’d have 1 more. When Pam played a game, she would trash talk you into both laughter and trying to get the full house in Yahtzee, or the Draw Four in UNO. 

She worked/ attended Options of Linn Country for more than 40 years! She loved working in the workshop stuffing envelopes or whatever job was needed. Then later in Dayhab Pam loved to bowl and volunteer for schools and Meals on Wheels. Camp Courageous was her joy and she tried to attend camp many years to swim, zip line and ride the train.

During her life she shared experiences with family and friends camping, riding bikes and boating with cousins Carl, (Deb). She shared her birthdays with cousins Lori (Dave) and family. She loved Phil & Louanne’s dogs almost as much as them. 

Pam could spot a VW beetle 2 blocks away and slug bug you in the arm. Remember the words to John Denver songs and Elvis songs. When at dances would want to sing and dance til she dropped. 

Each of us has a fond memory of Pam and I know she would make us laugh at some things she would say. As you think of her do not think of the limitations or struggles of her life, but the limitless amount of love she gave us and joys she brought. 

They say I must be one of the wonders Of God's own creation
And as far as they see, they can offer No explanation 
Destiny laughed as she came to my cradle, Know this child will be able, Laughed as my body she lifted,
Know this child will be gifted, With love, with patience, and with faith.
She'll make her way, she'll make her way - Wonder by Natalie Merchant

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Visitation will be held from 9-11 AM, Saturday, May 31st at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Entombment will be in Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Instead of flowers please honor gifts to Special Olympics Iowa or Camp Courageous of Iowa.