O’Rourke & O’Rourke
Inc. Funeral Home

25 River Street
Salamanca, NY 14779
phone: (716) 945-4760
fax: (716) 945-4222
john@orourke-orourke.com

Bryon Karl Ray

Bryon Karl Ray, also known as “Boston” or “Eaglehelper” passed away early Saturday Morning on December 3rd, 2016. He was 53. He was born in Salamanca NY, a full blood member of the Seneca Tribe, Deer Clan; He died in Las Vegas, NV.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Jimerson, and his father, Ellsworth Ray, and two sisters, Charlene and Ellen.

Bryon lived a very full life and did not let his chronic illnesses and disabilities stop him. He rode his electric wheelchair across the country from Blaine Washington to the White House on a three year journey to raise awareness of disabilities and chronic illness. He rode through 256 Federally recognized Tribal Nations, went to most State Capitols and many towns and cities in between. Many came out to show support, from athletes to musicians, to artists and actors, Tribal Leaders and Congressmen and women and met with many regular folks along the way – to hear their stories and challenges they faced day to day.

Bryon was a good hearted man – he was a Pipe Carrier – he embodied the beauty of life – finding joy even in tragedy, showing kindness, compassion and mercy and tough love – and fighting the good fight when necessary. He stood his ground at Oka in Kanesatake – and did not run away. He was a brave man, true to his heart and beliefs. He counseled anyone who came to him, and many came – from prostitutes to presidents – their station in life mattered not. He never took credit for helping anyone who came to him – he paid rent, electric and gas bills, bought food – he lived the life of a pipe carrier – he never told others who he helped – it didn’t matter – he just helped. He defended the forgotten. He showed and lived the idea of Love.

“Boston” was his nickname given to him by his uncle on the Allegany Rez, “Eaglehelper” was his spiritual name given to him by Chief Oliver Red Cloud and Floyd Looks For Buffalo Hand from the Oglala Sioux Nation of Pine Ridge SD. He was spiritually adopted by Chief Red Cloud. Bryon was on Red Road ever since. He and his wife designed the People of the Longhouse Pendleton blanket – to honor the Haudenosaunee Confederation. He will be missed by his wife of over twenty years – Gina M. Goodwin – and his brother, John Ray, numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins and a multitude of friends – Marty Stuart and Pete Rose are among many who will always remember his laughter and joy.

Graveside services will occur at 11am on Wednesday December 14th at Memorial Heights Cemetery, Jimersontown NY.

O’Rourke and O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River St. Salamanca, NY is in charge of funeral arrangments.

E-Condolences can be sent to john@orourke-orourke.com or to facebook.com/onofh.