Ellis Max Mansfield, a 73-year-old man from Moncure, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on March 15, 2020. He was born in Chatham County and was a long-time resident of Moncure. Ellis was a dedicated Project Supervisor for over 20 years with D&S Construction and was a member of the New Elam Christian Church. He is survived by his daughters, Patricia Joann Mansfield and Elizabeth “Libby” Mansfield Thomas, as well as three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Ellis
Mansfield's death was part of a larger tragedy that occurred in Moncure on the same day. The incident was determined to be a murder-suicide, where seven family members were killed. The suspected gunman, Larry Don Ray, 66, shot six family members before taking his own life. The victims included Ellis Mansfield, his wife Lisa Mansfield, 54, Jeanie Ray, 67, Helen Mason, 93, John Paul Sanderford, 41, and Nicole Sanderford, 39. The only survivor was a teenage boy who hid in a closet and called 911 during the incident.
The Chatham County Sheriff's Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation conducted an investigation into the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but the evidence pointed to Larry Don Ray as the perpetrator. The community of Moncure, known for its quiet and close-knit nature, was deeply affected by the unexpected violence.
The loss of Ellis Mansfield and the other victims was described as devastating by local authorities and community members. Sheriff Mike Roberson expressed the profound sense of loss felt by the community and extended condolences to the families and friends of the victims. The tragedy left a lasting impact on Moncure and highlighted the importance of community support in times of crisis.
