Ray was born on October 29, 1941 in Helena, Montana, to parents Ethel E. Buchanan and Edward H. Bell. He was raised with older brother James (Maryann), younger brother Allen, and younger sister Catherine (Keith). Ray was baptized at St. Helena Cathedral in 1955. He attended Hawthorne Elementary School and Cathedral High School.
Ray enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in February 1960. His specialty was Aircraft Communication System Technician. He received an Honorable Discharge in February 1964.
Ray returned to Helena to work in his father’s printing business, The Helena Letter Shop. Working together, they grew the business. When Ray’s father retired in the early 1970, Ray took over the business and it became The Printers. After selling the successful business in 1989, he transitioned to a career in real estate.
He was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, with 41 years of service to the organization.
Ray married Ellen M. Egan on June 16, 1973. They raised two children, Kristine and Gregory. Kristine provided Ray and Ellen with two beloved granddaughters, Cheyenne and Kylie.
Ray enjoyed being in nature. He had a particular soft spot for Mount Helena, where he played as a youth and hiked as an adult. He enjoyed sitting in his easy chair soaking up, the southern sun through a window with a prominent view of Mount Helena. He enjoyed traveling with loved ones. He cherished long talks with his dearest friends over coffee and donuts. Later in life, he discovered a fondness for golfing.
Ray married Mary L. Lutgen on June 22, 2013. He gained four children: Wendy, Justin, Shawn, and Kevin. He also gained cherished grandchildren: Austyn, Patrick, Lucia, Elizabeth, Natalie, Kaitlyn, and Gabriel. Ray and Mary found a lovely winter home in Sun City, Arizona. They enjoyed an active lifestyle. They traveled and attended many concerts and theater events.
On February 18, 2025, Ray’s spirit moved on. He transitioned peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by loved ones. He is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Helena at 11:30 am, Thursday, February 27th. A luncheon will follow, including time to share personal memories. Burial will be at Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Fort Harrison, at a later date.
Mary Tompkins Edwards says
God bless you, Ray! I have fond memories from childhood of times you would visit us in Burbank when you were stationed in California–usually dinner was involved! Our thoughts and prayers are offered for you and the family. Rest in peace, cousin.
Carol Alm says
To a man that had so many patients with teaching me to run a printing press and how to clean it.. He was an awesome boss and friend. Rest in peace Ray.
Ray 2 Omaha says
We will miss my friend Ray. He’s is with us in spirit and
memories. He helped me learn how to zoom into AA meetings. I remembering how he said to me, think about helping other’s for hours, talking about AA principles. He, loved going to musical events while living in sun city,Arizona. Mary and him loved walking the trails in Arizona. He also told me to think about living not dying.
Dave Galt says
Ray is my cousin and a wonderful man. He was a few years older than me but I remember he always had a smile on his face and offered great advice. You are a great friend Ray Bell God Bless you a d I’ll see you again down the road.
Roy Anderson says
Ray was a wonderful cousin. He was like an older brother when I was a child, and as adults we shared some good times together. He was a great example to me as a man serving his country while I was too young to do so, and later provided inspiration for me to join the military. God Bless his family and may he rest in peace.
Ralph & Helen Blee says
So sorry Mary to hear about Ray, we were so glad you were able to have someone to share you life with after Ted died. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless You.
Dave Clark says
My life is so much better for having known Ray. Miss you my friend.😇
Diane Lewis(Brown) says
My mom Betty Brown worked for his dad at The Letter Shop then for Ray at The Printers. When I turned 16 Ray offered me a job at The Printers after school and Saturday’s. Ray was a great boss. I continued to work for him until I left for trade school. When I would come home to visit he and his dad would join us for Wednesday coffee at the fireside. He will be greatly missed. I pray for peace for his family.
Dawn Reynolds says
Sad news, Ray was one of those bigger than life characters. Condolences to his family.
Peter J Hamper says
Ray was a great guy. He knew what his goals were and prused them. We went to h.s. together and enjoyed many adventures. May he rest in peace.