Robert Francis Rayner, age 77, passed away peacefully in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on September 10, 2024, surrounded by family. Born in Clinton, OK on May 28, 1947, Robert was the second son of Mary and Ira Rayner. He lived a life full of dedication to his family, career, and interests. Robert will be remembered for his humor and the love he had for his sons.
Robert graduated from Clinton High School before attending Oklahoma State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in business. His education led to a long and successful career with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority in safety engineering, where he worked for over 25 years, earning respect for his commitment and work ethic.
In 1978, Robert married Virginia Gurney and together they welcomed four sons into the world: Jonathan, Brandon, Brian, and Matthew. He was a devoted father and placed his sons first and foremost, committed to ensuring they had a better life. Robert was often found leading scout troops, coaching soccer teams, building forts, and winning pinewood derbies. He taught his sons the value of doing work themselves through repairing cars and caring for their home. Holidays were his favorite time of the year as they brought the family together and he always looked forward to celebrating Christmas through lights. His sons remember the best times as those when their dad was creating silly stories and laughing at himself as he told them.
Outside of work and family, Robert found joy in his backyard and the family farm where he was born. He had a love for fishing, particularly in ponds, where he could enjoy the quiet of the outdoors. His love of the water extended to sailing and boating, anchored through time on the lake with his parents and brothers. Robert enjoyed traveling around the country, from the coasts to the mountains and shared that love through family road trips. He had an eye for capturing beautiful and peaceful moments through the lens of his camera, with his sons being his favorite subjects. Robert had a sweet tooth for all desserts, from cherry pie to bread pudding. In his youth, he was an avid skier and tennis player.
Robert is preceded by both of his parents.
Robert is survived by son Jonathan Rayner; son Brandon Rayner; son Brian Rayner; son Matthew Rayner and wife Zoee; brother; Terry Rayner; brother Chris Rayner; brother Danny Rayner; grandchildren Atlas Sage Hawkes, Zachary Thomas Rayner, Olivia Rayner, Arthur Rayner; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Tuesday September 17th, 2024, at 10am. Under the direction of Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home.