John Raymond Cunningham Cunningham

(John) RAY Cunningham, the sweetest man in the world has died. But the birth and death of this lovely man is not nearly as relevant as all the days and nights that he lived to the fullest between those two dates.

Ray grew up and attended school in Etobicoke. He later completed his undergraduate studies at Western University and a Masters degree in Education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

Ray devoted over thirty years to the families he served in the Toronto District School Board. His work in education, initially as a special education consultant and then school administrator, eventually took him to Northlea School where, in September 1992 he met the love of his life, Steve Travers, who had also just arrived as a teacher. They declared themselves a couple on April 27, 1993. Ray and Steve lived in Toronto during the week, and at their cottage on Eel’s Lake on weekends.

Ray retired from his role as a elementary school administrator June 2003, but continued to work on a part time basis for TDSB. Following Steve’s retirement in June 2017, they moved to their newly built home on Eel’s Lake. Their home away from home was in Akumal, Mexico.

Ray’s thirst for new adventures and love of people took he and Steve around the world and provided countless lifelong memories for his family and friends.

Ray was diagnosed with stage four cancer on August 26, 2020 and died peacefully on September 28th with Steve by his side.

Ray is predeceased by his father Jackie Cunningham of Mississauga. Ray lives forever in the hearts of his spouse of 27 years, Steve Travers of North Kawartha, step mother Bea Cunningham of Mississauga, brother David Cunningham, and all those who are deeply loved Ray.

As expressions of sympathy Ray's family would appreciate donations to Ray's favourite charity Doctors Without Borders. https://www.doctorswithoutborders.ca/

A truly meaningful celebration of Ray and his life will be announced after Covid.