Patty Jo Arnold (Wahle) Bray

Patty Jo Arnold (Wahle) Bray, born January 7, 1942, passed away in the early hours of March 30, 2026, in Montrose, Colorado.

Patty was born in Lawton, Comanche County, Oklahoma, to her parents, Joseph Albert Arnold and Mary Catherine Maloney.

Raised as an “army brat,” Patty spent her childhood moving across the country and abroad, living on military bases in Oklahoma, California, Kansas, Germany, and beyond. As a teenager, tired of constant relocation, she chose to put down roots in Junction City, Kansas when her family moved on yet again. There, while still completing her final years of high school, she supported herself financially. Known for both her intellect and her vibrant personality, she even earned extra income by scandalously writing essays to sell to classmates!

Shortly after graduating, Patty married Charles P. Wahle. Though their marriage did not last, they shared two beloved daughters, Christine and Margaret.

She later married James Bray, and they welcomed and raised her third child, James Bray Jr., before later parting ways.

Patty completed programs at Rice University and the International Travel Institute in Houston, and worked in a variety of fields throughout her life, including veterinary clinic administration, banking, caregiving for individuals with disabilities, childcare, and most notably, as a travel agent - a role that perfectly reflected her vagabond spirit.

Patty traveled extensively around the world and was an avid, skilled scuba diver.

She also made her home as an adult in many remarkable places, including Houston, Texas; Grand Junction, Colorado; Telluride, Colorado; and even the great wilderness of Alaska.

She was a devoted animal lover who raised many cats and dogs over the years, with a particular fondness for Siamese cats. Patty was also known for her cooking - especially her fried chicken, biscuits and gravy; and for her love of great margaritas and Mexican food.

She will be remembered for her quick wit and spicy, playful sense of humor; her zest for adventure; her desire to give despite her means; and her resilient nature.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents and both of her daughters, Christine Johnson and Margaret Wahle. She is survived by her son, James Bray; her grandchildren, Ian Ashcroft, Heather Wahle, Bridger Johnson, and Madeline Haddow; as well as extended family and dear friends.

She will be laid to rest at Lone Tree Cemetery in Telluride, Colorado, alongside her daughter Christine. Their interment will take place on July 11. A small celebration of life will be held as well, with details to be finalized soon.