Eileen O'Bray

Eileen O’Bray passed away suddenly on August 21st, 2024 in Schenectady after a three-month courageous fight against a massive stroke.

Born in Schenectady New York, Eileen was the daughter of the late James and Helen (Carney) O’Bray. Having graduated from Schalmont High School, Eileen continued her education and earned a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy at Ithaca College. She served at various hospitals in Ethiopia, including the Army Hospital where she dealt with war victims as the sole and pioneer physical therapist. She returned to Schenectady in 2000 where she worked at The Center for Disability Services in Albany until her retirement. Eileen’s career as a respected physical therapist is marked by her extraordinary dedication to her patients and commitment to the profession.

Eileen was a lifelong fan of the Yankees and an avid viewer of professional tennis tournaments that took place during family events. But her greatest contribution to the family has been her exceptional role as the glue that connected all the O’Bray cousins and relatives during her lifetime, a position that will be difficult to replace. Selflessly devoted to her family, she was always there in times of need.

Eileen was a voracious reader who enjoyed solving crossword and jigsaw puzzles, long walks, and gardening. She is remembered by many for her wits, humor, and gift of storytelling and writing.

Eileen was married in Ethiopia in 1970 and lived with her husband in several countries, including Ethiopia, Cote d’Ivoire, and the United States.

She is predeceased by her parents and her sisters Cathleen Desai, Jean Ann Quinn, Christine Jones, and her son Tewedros Tamrat.

She is survived by her husband Tamrat Kebede, her daughter Tigest Tamrat, her brother James O’Bray, and her grandchildren Biruk and Zende Tamrat-Haughton

Services for Eileen will be held on Thursday August 29, 2024 at 12noon at Bond Funeral Home. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 11am-12pm. Burial will take place immediately after in Schenectady Memorial Park Cemetery on Giffords Church Road.

Eileen was loved and admired by many, and will be missed dearly by all who knew her.