Celebrating The Life of Ray
Ray was born on April 18, 1932, in Oak Bluff, Manitoba, the fourth child of William Thomas Mansell and Ellen Jane (Shimmin) Mansell. He was predeceased by his brothers, Glenn and Ralph, and his sister, Dorothy. His family later moved to Pine Falls, MB, where Ray graduated from Pine Falls Collegiate in 1950. Always eager to learn and build a future, he continued his education at GM Tech in Flint, Michigan receiving his Certificate in 1952 and returned to Winnipeg. He met Ruby McCutcheon from Carman, MB and they were married on May 11, 1955. In 1960, Ray began a long career with Canada Post. Although he did not pursue work as a mechanic, he continued to use his skills to keep the family cars in excellent condition.
In the following years, Ray and Ruby welcomed three daughters – Twyla, Cindy and Melodie. In 1974, his faith led him to move the family to W. Monroe, Louisiana, where he attended the White’s Ferry Road School of Preaching. After graduating in 1976, the family returned to Winnipeg, and Ray resumed his work with Canada Post, eventually transferring to Coquitlam, BC in 1977 and retiring in 1994. Ray’s faith was not simply a belief—it was a lifelong calling. Over the decades, he served his church family as a deacon, elder, and teacher. He approached each responsibility with humility and purpose, always striving to strengthen the congregation. Ray taught Bible classes with patience and clarity, guided church decisions with wisdom, and offered counsel through the Marriage Encounter program. His ministry extended far beyond Sundays; he was a steady presence in the lives of many, offering prayer, guidance, and encouragement whenever it was needed. He officiated weddings for close friends, his children and grandchildren—moments he treasured deeply and considered a privilege. After 56 years of marriage, Ray’s beloved Ruby passed away in 2012. Her loss was profound, yet Ray’s capacity for love endured.
In 2013, he found companionship again with Bernette Jacobs, who brought renewed joy and partnership into his life. Their years together in Coquitlam were marked by quiet routines, deep conversation, singing together and the simple contentment of two people grateful to have found one another. Ray leaves behind a legacy defined not only by family but by the countless lives he touched. He is remembered with love by his wife, 3 daughters, 4 honourary daughters, 8 grandchildren, 6 honourary grandchildren, and 11 great- grandchildren. Ray’s life was one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep affection for those around him. His legacy lives on in the generations he nurtured, the marriages he blessed, the congregations he served, and the community he guided with humility and grace.