Raymond D. Lum

Ray still touches and heartens me with his gentle influence.

Today we´ll be mindful and think of Ray. He was a bright light in my experience creating cultural diplomacy projects. Because of his masterful treatment of historical documents and lucid, approachable writing style we created an exhibition of early photographs that opened in Washington, DC, and after a venue in Beijing traveled extensively around China. Ray was also a delight to work with and I remember his sense of humor and genuine kindness.

I was in the Harvard-Yenching Library for the first time since the pandemic, and went down into the basement in search of books, near where Ray's office used to be. Ray was already heading the Western section of the library by the time I was in grad school, so our relationship was that of senior to junior ( to ). We never exchanged more than a few words at a time, and yet, over many years, those words added up into a store of fond memories. Ray had an excellent sense of humor, and his voice...

I recall Ray’s invaluable contribution to the “Path to Harmony” exhibition that chronicled US-China relations from the late 18th century to the reestablishment of diplomatic relations in 1979. Ray was a delight to work with and the result of our collaboration was a series of much-appreciated exhibition venues in China. I’ve long thought of Ray and remember him fondly as a great partner and a curious, kind, and thoughtful person. We were fortunate to know him.

Many things and occasions remind me of Ray even now. He lives on.

I don't think we ever get over missing a loved one after he or she is gone, but we do eventually get used to the sadness, and then the happy memories shine more brilliantly.

Always in our hearts.

I only just found out about Ray's death and that after he did not respond to a suggestion about having lunch together again. What a shock! He was always extraordinarily kind and supportive and will be deeply missed by everyone who worked in the field of Sino-Western relations.

Steven Leibo