In Memoriam: Donald Iain Ray, Faculty of Arts

The University of Calgary is saddened by the death of Professor Emeritus, Political Science, Dr. Donald (Don) Iain Ray, BA’70, PhD, who passed away at the Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary on Oct. 11 at the age of 76.

Don was beloved husband to Rosemary Margaret Brown, and dear father to Michael Ray, Matthew Ray (wife Lawrie) and Jenevieve (Jen) Ray. Don was adored by his grandchildren, Sophie Wollin, Evan Ray, Charlotte Ray, Gavin Wollin, and Quinn, Heidi and Ashton Ray.

Donald was born in Manchester, England, and moved to Canada with his parents, Don and Honey Ray, who were both artists and performers. 

As a young child, he joined their trick and fancy-roping, and knife-throwing act, touring Southern Africa twice as stars of Wilkie’s Circus. Later, they performed across Canada in shows and rodeos.

After attending Crescent Heights High School and UCalgary, Don completed his master’s degree in African studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, England, and then his PhD in African politics at the University of Toronto.

He taught African and comparative politics at UCalgary for 37 years, mentoring many students along the way. In 2008, he received the Rev. Dr. Chief John Snow Award for his teaching and support of Indigenous students. 

His research interests culminated in his leadership of a major multi-year project on traditional leadership, conducted in collaboration with 21 colleagues from Ghana, South Africa, Botswana and Canada. 

Following his retirement, he continued his work through the Yaa Asantewaa Project: Gender and Indigenous Leadership in Ghana Fighting British Imperialism.

"Don was a scholar and a gentleman. His work on African politics was inspiring and will leave a lasting legacy. So will his quest for social justice,” says Dr. Roberta Rice, PhD, professor and department head, Political Science. 

“He is already missed by faculty, staff and students." 

Among his many university responsibilities, he served for several years on the Board of Directors of the University of Calgary Faculty Association (TUCFA).

"Don was dedicated to the University of Calgary community, through his teaching and involvement in TUCFA. His commitment to social justice informed his scholarship, teaching and service, as well as his prolific community activism,” recalls longtime colleague Dr. Lisa Young, PhD, professor, Department of Political Science. 

Don was also active in the Calgary community, playing a leading role in the movement opposing apartheid in South Africa. 

In 2009, he became a founding member of Justice for Palestinians and remained actively involved until his passing.

After his retirement in 2015, Don joined the executive of the Calgary–Varsity NDP Constituency Association. For many years, he chaired its policy committee, which became a model for other constituencies.

Don was a voracious reader, with a deep interest in politics, history and mysteries. He also enjoyed playing miniature ancient war games (DBA) and took great pleasure in collecting and painting lead soldiers, as well as crafting detailed scenery.

He will be sorely missed by his family and many friends.

A Celebration of Don’s life will be held at Unitarian Church of Calgary, 1703 1 St. N.W., Calgary, on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed with Donald’s family here. 

In living memory of Donald Ray, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area southwest of Calgary by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells.

The University of Calgary offers deep thanks to Dr. Donald Iain Ray for the contributions he made to the university, his research field and the community at large. 

The flag on Swann Mall will be lowered to half-mast on Nov. 12 to pay tribute to his life.