Raymond R. Mann, 78, of Manlius died peacefully on Sunday, February 12, 2017 in the grace of his family and caregivers.
Born in the Bronx, NY on December 11, 1938, he was the son of John and Anna Mann. He was a graduate of Evander Childs High School in the Bronx and went on to Oswego State where he achieved a Bachelor of Science in education. Ray met fellow student Helene Sharo, with whom he fell in love, and later married in 1960. Their life together was a true adventure of love and commitment to family. After graduating from Oswego Ray and Helene moved to Long Island where he first taught at Patchogue Union Free School and then Amityville Union Free School. Ray continued to pursue his education by graduating in 1966 from Hofstra University with a Masters in Education Administration. In 1968 they moved to Upstate NY where Ray became assistant Principal at the Wellwood Middle School in Fayetteville, NY. He was promoted to Principal at Eagle Hill Middle School in 1977. In 1985 he became the Deputy Superintendent at Fayetteville-Manlius School District and finished his career in this role, before retiring in 1999.
During his career he was a member of the NYS Middle School Association, the NYS Administrator Association, and the Association of Supervision Curriculum Development. In 1996 Ray was awarded the SLS Administrator of the Year Award. In the community he dedicated countless hours to various causes including the Fayetteville Lyons Club where he served as president. Ray was also involved with St. Ann’s Church on the Pre Cana marriage counseling program.
Ray enjoyed sailing, antique cars, woodworking and travel.
He is predeceased by his parents. Surviving are his loving wife of 56 years, Helene Sharo Mann; daughters, Sister Claire Benedicta of the Cross O.C.D formerly, Gwendolyn Claire of Loretto, PA and Heather Lynn (Ted Ballard) Mann of Coral Gables, FL; grandchildren, Helen and John Ballard; brother, George (Wilma) Mann; sister, Mildred Diviney; sister-in-law, Evelyn Maloney; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Ray’s caregivers: Anne Marie, Chris, Heather, Jesseca, Kendra, Lisa, Nancy, Shannon, and Stacie who became his “adoptive daughters” and Eddie “the adoptive son.” Their attention, dedication and care over the past 3 years have meant so much to the family. A special thanks to his devoted niece Cathy Diviney aka “Ugly.”
His family and former colleagues are fully aware when he passes the pearly gates and is asked to give them a grade, it will be a C+!
Calling hours will be Wednesday February 15th from 4 to 7pm at St. Ann’s Church, Manlius. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday February 16th at 10am at the Church. A burial will follow in Manlius Village Cemetery.
Ray believed that all students should be exposed to the fine arts. His passion can be supported with a contribution to the Raymond R. Mann Fine Arts Scholarship at FM Schools, 8201 E. Seneca Turnpike, Manlius, NY 13104. Ray had a deep commitment to the Carmelites. Contributions also can be made to the Carmelite Monastery. P.O. Box 57, Loretto, PA 14950, checks payable to Discalced Carmelite Nuns.