Suzanne Gutman Bray

Suzanne Gutman Bray, 84, of Roswell, GA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, among family. Born on February 7, 1942, in Beverly, MA, Suzanne was the daughter of the late Arthur Holt and Alice Sweetnam. She is predeceased by her brother, Peter.

Raised in New England, Suzanne graduated from Needham High School. She attended the University of Vermont, serving as the President of the University’s Panhellenic Council. Suzanne earned a Bachelor’s degree in History at UVM.

Suzanne is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Carroll Freeman Bray Jr.; their son Christopher Bray and his wife Susan of Johns Creek, GA; their son Timothy Bray and his wife Amy of Austin, TX; and four grandchildren: Nicolas, Dinah, Holt, and Julia: and her sister Deborah and her husband Tyler

Suzanne and Carroll’s first date was a double date but not paired with each other. Characteristic of their many years together, they quickly made things right. After just two months of dating, during intermission of a showing of “My Fair Lady” in Washington DC, they decided to spend the rest of their lives together.

Suzanne’s main occupation was as a bookkeeper, but her job never defined her. Family always came first. She was a devoted wife, mother, and “Grammy”. Her loving support and rock-like dependability helped her husband through college and law school and her children and grandchildren through medical challenges ranging from cancer to complications at birth. Suzanne was not only made for the tough times. She drove the planning of the family’s annual beach vacation as well as trips with her grandchildren. She cherished bringing happiness and comfort to her family.

Outside of her family, Suzanne’s passions were helping others and travel. She volunteered with the Assistance League of Atlanta (ALA ) for nearly 15 years. Suzanne eventually served as the President of ALA, leading dozens of volunteers in helping thousands of children and adults in need of food and clothing in the Atlanta metro area. Her overseas adventures with Carroll included numerous trips to all corners of the globe. Suzanne had a curiosity about culture and a sense of adventure.

Parkinson’s presented a challenge for Suzanne later in life. True to form, she battled it with grace and strength. Wall sits and punching bags, fundraising walks and therapies, Suzanne worked hard to lead her best life. She was supported by so many kind people along the way, made even kinder by her appreciation for their guidance and encouragement. Carroll’s love, dedication, and humor lifted Suzanne’s spirits through the most difficult of times.

Suzanne had a favorite poem that we now embrace. It serves as a reminder through our sadness to “smile because she has lived,” to “open your eyes to see all that she has left.”

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. As a remembrance, the family encourages donations to the Assistance League of Atlanta or a charity of your choice.