Mary Raney, Person of the Year 2019

By Linda Elissalde
“Nothing shall separate me from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Mary Raney was the unanimous choice for Bay Vue United Methodist Church’s Person Of The Year. Her faith and service to church, family, community and friends made her a perfect selection for 2019. Mary, husband Frank and family moved to Bolivar Peninsula in 1980. The couple celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on March 1. She has been a faithful Christian servant since she was baptized and joined Bay Vue UMC in 1981. Many of her family followed and also joined Bay Vue.

Church members were asked to describe Mary’s dedication. Here are just a few of the accolades: Spends much time at the church doing whatever needs to be done, Care Group Leader, President of United Methodist Women, makes sure the church sign has a good message for our community, mentors children at Crenshaw School, and always thinks of others’ needs. We might add that Mary puts away anything that is left out at the church. If someone can’t find a pan or plate, the statement arises, “Call Mary. She will know where it is.” Mary Raney also has the distinction of appearing in all Way Off Broadway Ensemble Players productions since 2003. Her famous line, “Oh, woe is me!” has been repeated on many occasions.

Presentation of Person of the Year Award. Elaine Rollfing, Mary Raney, and Pastor Valerie Hudson.

Yet, Mary is not one to use that line in her life. Mary was diagnosed with multiple cancers, including lung cancer, last year. One prognosis decreed that she had 18 months to live. However, Mary placed her faith in God whom she trusts whole heartedly, and never gave up. She continued all her activates helping others while going through chemo and radiation therapy. Now, she is stabilized. Mary stated that she would get back to work since she was better. The statement surprised everyone because Mary never stopped performing good deeds during her treatments.

Frank and Mary Raney

MARY RANEY well deserves Bay Vue UMC’s PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD. She serves as an example of courage to all of us. Her graciousness in thanking everyone for their assistance exhibits her loving humility. Mary put her health in the hands of physicians and her faith in the hands of God. “Nothing shall separate me from the love of God, which is in Jesus Christ, our Lord.” Bravo, Mary!

Mary and Family

[3-19-2019]

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6 Responses to “Mary Raney, Person of the Year 2019”

  1. Mary, you are a true inspiration. I am proud to know and love you.thank you for being there for all of us.

  2. Tracy Rennison says:

    Congratulations to my well-deserving mother! She has always lived her life as one of service to others and to her church. Even after being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer, she volunteers and takes care of others tirelessly. She has been an example of strength, faith and grace during this time and before. I am so blessed to call this fiercely strong and faithful woman my mom.

  3. Mary Raney has been my sister in law for 56 years and we have grown up together over the years, couldn’t have asked for a better sister in law. Couldn’t think of a more deserving person. Congratulations Mary Raney

  4. Wallace Shook says:

    Congratulations, Mary. We’ve known for a long time that you were “The Greatest!”

  5. Deanna & Mike says:

    Great choice, She is most deserving and dedicated to our Lord Jesus Christ. Congratulations Mary, we love you.

  6. Audra Roddy says:

    I could not think of a MORE deserving human being then my Wonderful Mother!!! She is definitely an Inspiration to me and my family. Every good and perfect gift comes from GOD James 1:17!
    Audra!

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