Jeff Edward Rayburn's Obituary
Jeff Edward Rayburn, 67, of Covington, Louisiana, passed away on January 11, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Born on June 14, 1956, in Marietta, Georgia, Jeff was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, and friend. Jeff had a natural talent for bringing laughter to any occasion and was known for his quick wit. Jeff was unapologetically authentic, and his sense of humor coupled with his kind spirit resulted in an energy that was absolutely infectious to all that knew him.
Jeff is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Weissmann Rayburn, their three daughters: Heather King (spouse Zack King) and children Brooke, Tyler, and Hannah; Lauren Mendheim (spouse Andrew Mendheim) and children Luke, Georgia, and Sarah; and Erica Madden (spouse Logan Madden) and children Chloe, Eleanor, Liam, and Austin. He also leaves behind his two sisters, Vicki Rayburn Menetre (spouse Sandy Menetre) and Julie Rayburn, as well as many cousins, aunts and uncles, and countless friends.
Jeff is preceded in death by his parents, JW Rayburn and Ruth Shoultz Rayburn.
Jeff’s family moved to Covington when he was 6. He attended St. Peter's Primary School and later graduated from Covington High School in 1974. While Jeff was well traveled, having visited over 30 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, Jeff was quintessentially a “hometown boy”, and from early childhood through adulthood, created
many lifelong friendships and lasting memories with those friends in his beloved Covington.
Professionally, Jeff worked overseas in Dubai for McDermott, returned home to Covington and worked for Fritz Culver Inc., then worked for Shell Oil Company doing Seismic Exploration on the Shell America, and finally transferred to the Shell Norco Oil Refinery, where he ultimately retired after 25 years of service. His dedication and expertise in his field made him a respected professional among his colleagues which ultimately resulted in life long friendships.
In his leisure time, Jeff loved playing golf, attending LSU football games, following LSU sports, listening to music (especially that of his son-in-law, Zack King), enjoying history, traveling, meticulously tending to his yard and sharing a beer with friends at the Boston Pub (fun fact, Jeff opened the Boston Pub with Craig Cox (Pudge) and co-owned it from 1985-88). However, his greatest joy and love in life came from spending time with his wife, his girls, and his family. Jeff treasured the love of his life, Karen, and their 45-year marriage. Jeff was the consummate “girl dad” in raising his three daughters and was so proud of the women they grew to be. He enthusiastically supported his 10 grandchildren by attending all of their various academic and athletic endeavors.
A private family ceremony will be held at the Barker - McManus Cemetery. A Celebration of Life honoring Jeff will be held at the Boston Pub, 517 E Boston St, Covington, LA 70433, on February 17, 2024, beginning at 3 PM for all friends and loved ones. We encourage everyone who knew and loved Jeff to attend.
Jeff Edward Rayburn will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him. His legacy as a husband, father, and grandfather, as well as his legacy of laughter, love, and joyful spirit will forever live on in the hearts and minds of his family and friends, of which there are many.
Please share your thoughts and memories of Jeff on the E. J. Fielding Funeral Home website at https://www.ejfieldingfh.com/obituaries/Jeff-Rayburn/#!/TributeWall.
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