Mickey Ray Rayborn

He was born in New Orleans, LA but spent much of his childhood in Chalmette, the youngest of two siblings. Upon graduating from High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving, and risking his life for the country he so loved. He served three years with distinguished service and was honorably discharged having earned the rank of Corporal.

Just before boot camp, he fell in love with a young girl named Esther who would eventually become his wife. It became a 3-year, long distance relationship that withstood the test of time. Within 6 months of being honorably discharged, they were married. Through good times and bad, major hurricanes and jobs that kept them physically separated; their love never wavered. Even when arguing, they were still each other’s best friend.

Mickey was an avid Scuba Diver and had risen to the certification of Master Diver Trainer and flourished in underwater photography. He took numerous trips to Florida, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, The Bahamas and Roatan. In 1999, after 20 years of marriage, the unexpected and supposedly impossible occurred, the birth of their son, Mckay. This child became his life blood and the joy of his life. In March of 2006, Mickey became a true believer in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and developed quite a heart for ministry. Through Compassion International, he sponsored numerous children and worked events to educate people on the mission of the organization. Additionally, he funded a water well so that a village could have clean water through Life Outreach International Ministries. He was also a member of Promise Keepers as well as Louisiana Men of Christ. Even in death, he was still giving as he was a bone and tissue donor.

As a “former” Marine (as there are no “X” Marines) and a member of the NRA, he enjoyed going to the gun range with family and friends, maintaining the skills he developed during his active duty in the Corps and transferring those skills to his son.

At the time of his passing, Mickey was an employee of Entergy Louisiana, having served in numerous capacities, with 35 years of dedicated service.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Esther Stout Rayborn, his son, Mckay Rayborn, his older brother James Steve Rayborn and numerous Brothers and Sisters in Christ he considered family. He is preceded in death by his parents James Steve Rayborn and Willie Mae Jones.

Oorah Marine. Mckay and I miss your terribly and always will. I can’t imagine a more loving, dedicated, and phenomenal husband and father for us than you. We will love you, Always and Forever.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.