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Ross Rayburn Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ross Rayburn
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Chad Horton
December 4, 2007
To the Rayburn family, Mrs. Rayburn, Ruth, Becky, Liz and Ryan, you were my second family for two years in Okinawa and Colonel "Mr." Rayburn was my second father. I admired, respected and loved him. I have many wonderful memories of the countless days spent with all of you. As a father myself of three young daughters and a son I can only hope to be half the man he was in raising my family. I am so terribly sorry for your loss, for all of our loss. My thoughts are with you.
Cpl. Mark McMiller
September 15, 2007
My sympathies to the Rayburn family. I worked for Maj. Ross Rayburn in 1983/84 at the Joint Law Center, MCAS, Cherry point, NC. He was a fine Marine officer and a gentleman, and he had a great sense of humor. I am saddened to hear of Maj. Rayburn's passing.
Semper Fi,
Robert Heinz
March 7, 2007
I just heard about the passing of Ross. I served with him in El Paso Tx (JTF-6). The nicest guy in the world, we spent a few Saturday afternoons in Juarez betting on football games. Whenever I see Navy or Texas AM play I always think of El Paso and Ross. God Bless
R E Heinz (Lt Col USMC)
George & Pam HOLMES
October 3, 2006
Margarethe and the Rayburn Family -
Pam and I were saddened to read yesterday about your loss. Words can not let you know what a great Marine, gentleman, and friend Ross was to both of us. Serving with him in Desert Storm and then at Camp Pendleton I can attest to his love for his family, devotion to his God, and his unfaltering service to his Country. I always looked forward to his phone call
each Marine Corps Birthday - I will really miss his laughter this November. Please know that our prayers are with your family through these difficult days.
Nick van der Does, Capt. USMC (Ret'd)
September 30, 2006
Dear Margarethe & Family,
Words cannot express our feelings when we read of Ross' passing in the Military Officers Associaton magazine yesterday. We have such pleasant memories of our tour at KBay and our friendship with you wonderful people. Ross was such a fine officer and serving with him in the MAG-24 HQ was a real pleasure, not to mention our social contacts with you, Ross and little Ruthy. We have thought about you often since our last meeting in California. We are devastated and wish you the best of luck and much strength in the coming days. Call us any time you feel like it at 816-537-5838.
Love,
Nick and family.
Taken at MCAS Kanehoe in the early 70's.
September 30, 2006
Marci Motes
September 27, 2006
My deepest sympathies to the Rayburn family. I worked with and for Ross at the AG's Office. I was just sharing with my husband recently that Ross was the best boss I've ever had. He was so funny and he had the best personality. I'll always remember him fondly. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Candy Alexander Cheney
September 2, 2006
Ross was a wonderful high school friend. Unfortunately I missed the 40th reunion so it had been a while since we had visited. I will remember him fondly; those days sometimes seem like yesterday.
Liz, my heartfelt prayers go out to you. I lost my husband in February so I realize the pain, lonliness, confusion and responsibility you are feeling. If there is ANYTHING I can do to help, plese don't hesitate to call or email.
Amy Bousfield (Hall)
September 1, 2006
Dear Liz and Rayburn Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts. My heart is aching for you and your family. I feel like we were at your Fallbrook house just yesterday. There was a genuine warmth that came from that home. A warmth that was evidence of a close family that loves one another.
Michelle Rangel
August 30, 2006
I knew Ross through our work at TXDPS. Ross was always dependable, smart and FUNNY. I enjoyed him very much. Ross came through for me when I needed him and I will dearly miss him.
Alvin Keller
August 29, 2006
Dear Margarethe and Family,
Ella and I were saddened to hear of Ross’ passing. I still have great memories of our time at the Joint Law Center, Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, NC. Ross plays a large part in those memories. He was a fine Marine officer and a gentleman. May God be with you during this time of sorrow.
Semper Fidelis
Alvin W. Keller
Col. USMC(Retired)
Rev. Carolyn Patierno
August 29, 2006
Liz, Mike & Rayburn Family,
Liz, your father made such a lovely impression when I met him on the eve of your wedding. You may remember that we first met outside the Broken Yolk ... a beautiful morning that led to a beautiful wedding weekend. The Rayburn family is one of close bonds. I know you'll help each other move through this loss. I will hold all of you in prayer.
With love and sympathy,
Carolyn
Edwin Welch
August 29, 2006
Darn, I'm saddened by Ross' death. He was an outstanding Marine officer in so many ways. And just plain fun to be around. Semper Fi, Ed Welch, Col, USMC (Ret)/ Special Deputy Attorney General, State of N.C.
Tom Pitman '69
August 28, 2006
Dear Margarethe and Family,
I was saddened to hear of Ross' passing. I have so many fond memories of our four years together at Navy and our time as young Marine officers.
I know there are no words that can ease your grief. Just know that Ross was loved by many, and you and the family are in our prayers for healing and peace. God bless you all.
Brian Matous
August 28, 2006
I met Ross and his lovely wife, Liz's mother once in Atlanta.....meeting and growing to know and love his daughter Liz is quite an attribute to both of Liz's parent's character and all around good people. Know that my prayers are with you all as you moarn but more importantly as you cherish the memories that make you you.
Sincerely,
Brian Matous
August 27, 2006
To the Rayburn Family:
Craig and I did not get the pleasure of meeting Mr. Ross Rayburn but we know his daughter, Becky Gustafson, and can tell he is a great, great man. We are sending our prayers and condolences to all of you and wish Godspeed in your time of need. May the strength and love of friends, family and the Good Lord surround and embrace each of you now and always.
Sincerely,
Linh & Craig Johnson
Denise Douglass
August 27, 2006
Becky and the Rayburn Family:
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I enjoyed meeting Ross a few times and had a great deal of respect for him. May God be with you during this time and all of your days.
Denise Douglass
Rick Lottie
August 26, 2006
Dear Rayburn Family,
I was very saddened to learn of Ross' passing. At the Naval Academy, we were classmates, and together in the same battalion for all four years.
A beloved friend to many, Ross was known for his sincerety, wit, and a real care for others. When one needed a morale boost and a good laugh, you went to Ross. His heart was bigger than Texas.
I also had the honor and pleasure of attending The Basic School (TBS) with Ross. Even then, it was obvious Ross was a superb leader.
Ross was a great Marine, a warm and loving human being and a wonderful family man. There is no better legacy.
May God bless you and give you peace in this time of loss.
Semper Fidelis,
Jill Fahey
August 26, 2006
Dear Liz and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. My prayers and thoughts are with you. May you find peace within.
Miss you,
Jill
Bob Jones
August 26, 2006
Ralph,
I found out you lost your brother recently while visiting with Gary Graham in Tampa. He told me he attended the Rosary Service in Austin to pay his respects.
True feelings are difficult to express because finding the right words and putting them in the proper order has been a challenge since man learned to write.
Know this, my family sends the Rayburn family its deepest sympathy and will offer Mass this Sunday for you and all your relatives.
May his soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, Rest in Peace. Amen
God Bless
Bob [Jones]
{Bob Jones has been the Executive Director of the Southeastern Fisheries Association in Tallahassee, FL since 1964 and worked closely with Ralph (Ross' brother) in the fisheries field. He is also a Marine.}
Becky D.
August 25, 2006
Rayburn Family, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great person. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I love you Lizzie!
Carolyn Merchan Saegert
August 25, 2006
I used to work for Ross at the OAG. When I would go see Ross in his office, he always greeted me with a cheerful smile and was always, always receptive to what I had to say. I will always remember him as a very gentle and sweet man. My sincere condolences on your loss.
Malcolm Wells
August 24, 2006
I always smile when I remember Ross in high school. He one of those people who made life then worth enjoying. He will be missed but mostly remembered! Life is all too short for the best.
August 23, 2006
Dear Liz and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Just wanted to let you know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today and always.
With Sympathy,
Julie Dugan and Family
Sonia Garza-Mellinger
August 22, 2006
Dear Rayburn family,
I was the recipient of Ross' company when he shared a table with me and the Beltrans at our 40th class reunion. With his easy smile, he brought us joy. It is thus that I shall remember him.
I send his beloved family my sincerest condolences.
sonia garza mellinger
David and Wanda Wells
August 22, 2006
Our deepest sympathy to Ross's family at his passing. Ross and I were in Marine Corps Basic School together and we had not seen each other in years. Wanda and I did not realize that Ross lived in Austin until we read about his passing in the paper. I will always cherish the memory of that great Texan who could make us smile.
Michael Weil
August 22, 2006
I am sorry for your loss. Ross' memory will stay in our hearts forever. Our high school years together don't really seem that long ago.
Sherry Bernwanger Putman
August 22, 2006
My thoughts are with you and your family in this time of sorrow and loss. Ross was a wonderful friend in our younger days. All of us who knew him in those high school days send our deepest sympathy.
Susan Davis Bramer
August 22, 2006
Having seen Ross for the first time in 40 years at our reunion in 2004, it was evident that he was a wonderful man, father, and husband. It truly saddens my heart to know that we will never see that great smile again, and enjoy just being in his presence. My prayers are with you all.
Gary Lichtenstein
August 22, 2006
Ross lingers in my memory from our youthfull school days in Corpus. I see how many lives his smile and friendship and the example of a life well lived has impacted. What greater legacy can a man leave?
My thoughts are with his family and friends.
Larry Kelley
August 22, 2006
I was saddened to hear the news about Ross's passing, I was always greeted by him and his wife while being their bus driver...It was always a pleasure seeing them, and I know he is in a better place. God Bless Margarethe & her family in these times, and one day we will all see him again.
Garcia Nelda
August 22, 2006
Ross was a very nice man, I worked for him at the Attorney Generals office. I was saddened to hear of his death. Please take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. My prayers are with you. God Bless You.
Erin Campbell
August 22, 2006
I met Ross on the phone through work. I had finally got to meet him after all these months of talking to him over the phone at a crawfish boil. He always put a big smile on my face after speaking with him, what a kind hearted man he was. My heart and prayers go out to the Rayburn family. Ross will truly be missed by many.
Christen Wilbanks
August 22, 2006
I am truly sorry for your loss. I remember Mr. Rayburn as always having a smile and a quick comeback to make the rest of us smile. Remembering our girl weekends after college will always remind me of spending time with your family and laughing. May God's love guide you through this tough time.
jamie balagia
August 21, 2006
May the Lord bring you comfort in this time of sadness and grieve. Ross was a true competitor and always ethical in the courtroom. He will be missed by many defense attorneys and friends.
John Davila
August 21, 2006
I am truly saddened by the news of Ross' passing. I worked for Ross at the Attorney General's Office from 1997-1999. What will always stand out in my mind about Ross, is that he always stuck up for the little guy! He will be missed! It was an honor knowing him.
shirley smith
August 21, 2006
to the family of Ross. I only knew Ross thru my work and he was a wonderful man. My heart goes out to each of you and may his memory linger on our heart and in our minds for ever. he was a kind man and always helpful to me. i shall miss his also.
Daniel Connelly
August 21, 2006
Mrs. Rayburn, Ruth, Becky, Liz, and Ryan - your husband & father will always be a hero and mentor to me as I truly got to spend some memorable times with the Rayburn Family. Be it at your home in Okinawa, Grandma's place in Corpus or at your home in Fallbrook, the Rayburn family always held their arms open to welcome friends into their homes. The third verse to the Marines' Hymn states "If the Army and Navy ever look on Heavens scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines." LtCol Rayburn - Thank You for sharing your wonderful family, your smile and friendship with your fellow Marines. Mrs. Rayburn and Family my heart is saddened by your loss.
Semper Fi
Danny Connelly
MSgt - USMC/Retired
Kathy Hayes
August 21, 2006
I am very saddened to learn of Ross's death. Ross became my friend when we worked together at the OAG. His way of smiling always made it seem like he was up to some sort of mischief. He will be very missed. My thoughts and prayers go to his family who I know he was so proud of and loved so very much.
Mike Hough
August 21, 2006
I and so many who have been touched by the love and caring of Ross are deeply saddned by his passing. May the love, thoughts, and prayes ease your sadness and over time be replaced by only the most loving memories. God bless you all. Take care of yourselves and each other.......Love, Mike Hough
Pat Stroop
August 21, 2006
I am saddened to learn of Ross' passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, and hopefully your loving memories of Ross will help you through this difficult time.
Scott Gustafson and Megan Fincher
August 20, 2006
Sorrow fills our hearts in the present, hope and peace fill our heart for the future. Our love and prayers are with you all.
Yes, in joy you shall depart,
in peace you shall be brought back;
Mountains and hills shall break out in song
before you,
and all the trees of the countryside shall
clap their hands.
In place of the thornbush, the cypress shall
grow,
instead of neetles, the myrtle.
This shall be to the Lord's renown,
an everlasting imperishable sign.
Isiah 55:12-13
Jesse & Gloria Perez
August 20, 2006
Our deepest condolences for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shannon Pruski
August 20, 2006
Dear Rayburns,
Tenderly, may time heal your sorrows. Gently, may friends ease your pain. Softly, may peace replace your heartache. And may warmest memories remain. Our hearts and love go out to each of you. Ross is remembered with so many memories of LAUGHTER AND LOVE!
The Pruskis - Sha, Rodney & kids
Rudy Beltran Sr.
August 20, 2006
Our condolences to you and your family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Rudy & Becky Beltran
Vickie Miele
August 20, 2006
Liz, you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. My sincere hope is that you will find peace in the days to come.
Vickie
Alonzo Alvarez
August 20, 2006
Your wonderful family is in our thoughts and prayers. Our heartfelt sympathies to you all.
Your extended family in Atlanta is here for you.
Alvarez Family
Rebecca Brown
August 20, 2006
Becky,
My heart goes out to you and your family. You are all in my prayers.
Paige Eshelman
August 20, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with Becky and her family. We love you.
Love,
Paige, Chris and Kayla Eshelman
Tom and Stephanie Frohne
August 20, 2006
We are heart-broken to hear of Ross's death. He will always be remembered by us as a loving, caring man who deeply loved his wife, family and friends.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Tom and Steph Frohne
Lisa Bleeker
August 20, 2006
Ross was a great man. Visiting with him at work @ TXDPS, lots of fun and always made me laugh. Ross will be missed dearly. God be w/ Ross's family and give them strength to get thru this difficult time.
Doug & Donna Bogart
August 20, 2006
All things grow in
time - except grief. Know that my prayers are with your family at this time.
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