JAMES RAY BRASWELL 

James Ray, also known as “Runt” and “Flea Bag,” came to live at Sunnybrook in the early 70’s with his 3 older brothers – Terry, Paul and Jerry.  Another brother was in Vietnam and his 2 sisters were raised by an aunt.

James had not lived at Sunnybrook an entire year before having to undergo open heart surgery at the tender age of 6.  He was hospitalized for 6 months.  His second open heart surgery came at age 16.   Though he struggled with health issues and still does, he has great memories of his time at Sunnybrook Children’s Home.  He made his home at Sunnybrook until age 21.  He still tries to come home and check on everyone whenever he can.  He is particularly looking forward to the Golden Anniversary Sunnybrook Children’s Home will celebrate in 2014.

He remembers working hard in the garden because Sunnybrook grew their food in those days.   He said, “I learned that one must work to eat.  With the price of food escalating today, I may return to those roots of gardening.”

Some of his fondest memories are from the Farm Program where he worked with the cows regularly and showed them in competitions.  He still has the many ribbons he won competing.  He was part of a group of boys known as “Little Cowboys.”  While they may have been full of mischief at times, they worked hard and enjoyed playing hard.  Valuable life lessons learned through the Farm Program were responsibility, discipline, hard work and the ability to accomplish things even when you thought you could not.  He tried to pass those lessons to his stepchildren as they were growing up.

James had some good friends while at Sunnybrook.  The twins, Ricky and Randy Boone, Thomas Tigner, Randall “Plow Boy” Clayton and Timmy Waldrop just to name a few of the many he enjoyed.  He still keeps up with some friends and former houseparents to this day.

Favorite activities, in addition to being on the Show Team, were playing basketball with Bro. Welch and friends and attending Camp Wyldewood every summer.

He remains thankful for the good home and environment he had at Sunnybrook.  Among many of the lessons he learned was to think of others and always do the right thing.

Rosalind Seabrook, Director of Finance, said of James Ray, “He is remembered fondly and loved by all.  His optimism in the face of numerous difficulties through his life is inspiring.  He retains his magnetic, boyish charm and comedic, fun personality.  He is a joy to know.”   

         

 

"I never cease to be amazed by the generosity and kindness demonstrated by people toward our children." 
--Donna Washington
   Administrative Assistant, Sunnybrook Children's Home

 

POETRY 

This poem was written by a 15 year-old girl who lives at Sunnybrook. She dedicated it to the Sunnybrook Staff.

CAREGIVER     

You are my caregiver through thick and thin,

When things went wrong, you took me in.

You are my caregiver through hail and rain,

You let my teardrops fall in the drain.

You are my caregiver through big and small,

When I'm with ya'll, I stand tall.

You are my caregiver through pain and games,

But you tell me to remember God and His Name.

You are my caregiver through love and hate,

When I'm worried, you tell me to hold on and wait.

You are my caregiver whenever I need you

I hope this brings joy to you.