Robert Bray was a popular American actor who starred as forest ranger Corey Stuart in the TV series Lassie. He also appeared in many other films and TV shows, such as The Lone Ranger, Perry Mason, and Stagecoach West. But how did he die and what was his cause of death?
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Early Life and Career
Robert Bray was born on October 23, 1917, in Kalispell, Montana. He served as a U.S. Marine in the South Pacific during World War II before pursuing an acting career. He entered films in 1946 under contract to RKO and appeared in several B movie Westerns. He also had roles in Bus Stop with Marilyn Monroe and My Gun Is Quick as detective Mike Hammer.
Lassie and Other Roles
Bray became famous for his role as Corey Stuart, a forest ranger who adopted Lassie, in the CBS series Lassie. He played the character from 1964 to 1968 and won the hearts of millions of viewers. He also starred as Simon Kane, a stagecoach driver, in the ABC series Stagecoach West from 1960 to 1961. He guest-starred in many other TV shows, such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, and The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp.
Personal Life and Death
Bray was married twice and had six children. His first marriage was to Joan Loretta Bray from 1960 to 1968. He married his second wife, Jeanne Bray, in 1971 and remained with her until his death. Bray died on March 7, 1983, at the age of 65 in Bishop, California. According to UPI, he was found dead in his car by a passerby. An autopsy was performed to determine the exact cause of death, but the results were not publicly disclosed. Some sources claim that he died of a heart attack or a stroke.
Legacy and Tribute
Robert Bray was a talented and versatile actor who left a lasting impression on his fans and colleagues. He was best known for his role as Corey Stuart in Lassie, which earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also had a distinguished military service and was awarded the Purple Heart for his wounds in World War II. He was buried at the Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California. His grave marker reads: “Robert E Bray – US Marine Corps – World War II – Oct 23 1917 – Mar 7 1983”.
