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Christopher Raynor Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Raynor
Isabel DelHomme
October 5, 2009
I have been wanting to write to you, Karen, for weeks now. Been searching for the right words, there are none. We have something in common, I lost my mother in a car accident momments after saying I do on my wedding day 6 years ago. She was leaving the church on her way to the reception. As I stood in the street with my entire wedding party my mother died at the sceene. Your story has touched my heart and brought me right back to that day. Faith definitley has kept me going as I'm sure it does the same for you. Also the kind words from complete strangers gave me soo much strength, which is what has inspired this message. I know it will never be "normal" for you again, you sort of discover a new normal. Hoping you discover your new normal and continue to grow in Christ's love and grace.
You have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since I heard about your story. You seem like a remarkable woman, Chris was a lucky man to have such support and love.
September 28, 2009
I read your story and I want to say my prayers are with you the bride, and the families. I am encouraged that you were able to speak at a memorial service that minutes before was supposed to be your wedding. You have shown a world of people searching that Christ truly gives strength and that death is merely a temporary separation from other believers. We here at The Brooklyn Tabernacle are praying for you sister.
Christ's Love
Sherry Thrasher
September 26, 2009
I have searched for the words to leave with you but they all seem so trite. I would like to offer that your family has been in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you peace in quiet moments remembering that “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” - Pericles
May God comfort each of you.
T
September 26, 2009
Still so sad and praying for everyone.
Mark and Katherine Jackson
September 26, 2009
My husband and I met Karen and Christopher only briefly on a weekend beach trip in Ocean Isle..they were such a beautiful and energetic couple. We just wanted to say that your family is in our prayers and to hear of your faith has been so encouraging to so many people. Thank you for your courage and genuine faith in our Lord and Savior.
Kelly Mitcham
September 22, 2009
Karen~ My husband David went to college with you, we were saddened to hear of this tragedy. Your words are very inspirational, and with your deeep faith in God you will continue to heal. You are right the best is yet to come. And Chris message to you that morning, was him telling you he will be okay and so will you. We met in our Women of the Word bible study today, and our leader spoke of you and your story. How you both have a deep love and appreciation of the Lord. Thank you for your words. Remember he will help you heal!
September 21, 2009
Dear Jeff and Joanne,
There are no words for this terrible loss. I am so sorry you lost your son, Christopher. I have been praying for you both and will continue to do so. I know your pain as we lost our son 2 years ago. I knew your son through our daughter and son-in-law, Carly and Paul Lafore. May you continue to receive many hugs, much love, support and prayers. If I can be of any support please know I am only an email away.
May you feel God's love at this time,
Sue Mellott
September 21, 2009
I received a call from my son in NY, Christopher Needham, who went to school with your Christopher. He was so distraught over having heard about the accident. He said, "Mom, he was such a great guy." I just wanted to let you know that my son and I also weep for you. I currrently work with Paige Bivens and she has also told me of what a wonderful blessing Chris has always been to you. According to my Chris and Paige, he was a bright light in the life of anyone who knew him. May God continue to bless you and give you the strength you need to live on in that light. Susan Dixon
Terri Schwabenland
September 20, 2009
Now I know where Chris got his personality and kindness from: his parents. Jeff and JoAnne are truly the most wonderful, lovely, giving people I have met in a long time. It was an honor to spend the past week with you. Karen is lucky to have a second set of parents in you.
jessica
September 19, 2009
Your faith is inspiring and I know God is working "all things together" for your good because you love Him. Your story has brought some perspective to my current troubles and I pray God blesses you immensely for your faithfulness to Him. God bless you.
September 18, 2009
Karen, You sound like an amazingly strong and extraordinary woman. Keep memories of Chris close to your heart.
September 18, 2009
I knew Chris from High School. What a gentile soul. Very sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Kelly Carroll
September 17, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you! It is so apparent that Chris brought his own special light into this world. Karen I know you will continue to reflect that light. You have a special angel watching over you now. May your find comfort in your love for one another.
Sending thoughts of love, Kelly Carroll
Anne Smith
September 17, 2009
Karen, and Mr and Mrs Raynor, on behalf of the entire Macy's Wedding Registry Team at Crabtree Valley Mall, Triangle Towne Center and Streets of Southpoint, please accept our sincerest condolences and sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the memories of laughter and love you shared with Chris sustain you now and in the days ahead.
Veronica Best
September 17, 2009
I don't know you at all but my faith has been increased, encouraged and revived by hearing your testimony. You are a blessing in ways and places you have not known. We are praying for the young bride and the families affected by Chris' early departure with Jesus. Heaven is our ultimate reward for it is there we get to meet Jesus face to face and it makes all of our pain and sorrows on earth worth the wait.
September 17, 2009
Precious Joanne and Jeff, obviously words stick in our throat and tears flow at the news of this early homegoing of your adorable son Chris. I remember the day we took the fun trip to Wrightsville Beach with Chris and our friend Susie and how hard we laughed at everything and how
wonderful and entertaining Chris was. I'm so glad we took time that day to hear the waves, enjoy God's creation, and be a part of each others' lives - also all the wonderful days of teaching the children in BSF together. You are so loved and will be carried by our magnificent,
beautiful Savior through this valley. My love to you both and Karen. In Jesus' sweet love, Tanya
John & Gert Balog
September 17, 2009
There are no words that can console or explain this great loss. Although we can't understand it, God had a plan for Chris, as He does for us, and he is in the arms of our Savior. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joanne, Jeff, and Karen.
Patti Morgan
September 17, 2009
I have read your story and want you to know to stand firm in who God is. He is beginning and the end. He is your source and your sustainer. Cling to Him and He will give you a peace that is truly beyond our understanding. My prayers are with you and your families during this time of loss.
September 17, 2009
We are heart broken. Sending sincerest sympathy and prayers.
Love,
Jane Hawley and family
Michele Finch
September 16, 2009
To our precious Karen and the loving parents of Chris,
Words are not enough to express the sorrow we are feeling at your loss. Please accept our prayers, love, and support during this time - and always.
We love you so much,
Rick, Michele, and Michael
Karli L
September 16, 2009
I'm so sorry for what has happened in your life. I know you loved your fiance. I'll pray for you that the God of all comfort strengthen you in, this, your time of need. Aren't you glad we can call on him right now.
September 16, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. I taught Chris in high school and will forever remember his friendly smile and compassion. You will be my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Fondly,
Lisa Della Rocco
Toni Loving
September 16, 2009
Be blessed as we pray for you. The love you two shared won't ever die.
Jon Cassel
September 16, 2009
Karen and family - May God bless and comfort you in this time of earthly loss. But as I see in your testimony, you know that Chris is with our Lord. You will be with him again some day. Take encouragement from this! I will keep you and the family in my prayers...
September 16, 2009
On Friday night the 11th, I worked with Chris and Karen at Sacred Heart Cathedral practicing for the wedding. I remarked to my friend later that I had worked with one of the happiest couples ever. Chris and Karen were so obviously happy and so in love. I have just realized that I was one of Chris's teachers in sixth grade at LRMS. My thoughts and prayers are with these two families.
Lynn Mattox Raleigh, NC
A Sister
September 16, 2009
I don't know you and you don't know me, but we are connected by the bond of our shared belief in Jesus. I came across this story on the internet and was immediately compelled to pray for you all. Please know the God knows the depths of your pain and the horror of your loss. And please know that He is burdening His people all over the country to pray for you.
Cindy Ellis
September 16, 2009
Jeff and family: I just wanted to tell you how very, very sorry I am to hear about your son Chris. No one knows your exact pain but I know that you must ache terribly for Chris. He, no doubt, was, and is, a wonderful person. My 21 yr. son was killed in an auto accident 17 mo. ago. He also went to ECU and majored in Construction Mgmt. Chris and Joseph are with our Lord Jesus now and that knowledge of Chris being with Jesus is what will get you and your family through this. I don't know you personally, Jeff, but I work at Progress Energy and know you did also. I have and will pray that God bless you every day and give you and your family the kind of strength and comfort that only He can provide.
Gina Freeman
September 16, 2009
Karen and family.. Please, accept my deepest sympathy and condolences. My husband, Officer Steve Freeman sends the same. Chris is now walking with our Lord.We may not understand...but God's plan has already touched so many lives...Chris is part of His devine plan. Your example of faith is truly encouraging Karen.
May God Comfort You All...
Officer Steve & Gina Freeman
Dolores and Mick McMahon
September 16, 2009
Karen We were so sorry to hear about your loss. I remember talking to Chris on Tiffany Lane about Charlie. He was so nice and personable.
You and Chris's parents are in my prayers. May God give you peace.
Caitlyn Ashton
September 16, 2009
I worked with Chris at Mainstreet during college for several years. He was always came in with a smile and was just simply a pleasure to be around at all times. My heart goes out to Karen and his family. I will be praying for you and know that he has a special place reserved for him in heaven.
Barbara Tripoli
September 16, 2009
God bless Chris, Karen and their entire family. I heard this news on Saturday evening during a service at Sacred Heart Church. While I did not know Chris, Karen or their families, his death deeply sadden my husband and I... I will pray for you.
Georgianna Tropeck
September 16, 2009
To Chris' parents, and to Karen my deepest condolences go to you at this time of deep loss.
Georgianna Tropeck (Kelli Best's Aunt)
Laura Jensen
September 15, 2009
Chris would come over to our home for a quick lunch, with his friends, on many occasions. He was a joy to know and a good friend of my daughter, Jessica. (Laura Jensen - Formerly Laura Bishop of Raleigh, NC)
Chris Edwards
September 15, 2009
Dear Karen and the Raynor Family,
It is with deepest sadness that I hurt for your family. I had the pleasure of meeting Chris once through my brother Kelly Edwards. He was everything you say he was....funny, likeable, and light-hearted. I picked up on this in the short time that I met him. Kelly always spoke highly of him. I will continue to lift your family up in our prayers.
God Bless you all.
Chris Edwards
Natalie (Payne) Miller
September 15, 2009
Karen and Chris's family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers...daily!!! It is apparent that Chris knew the Lord and the Lord was in his heart. I hope you all can find comfort and feel God's warmth as he holds you and carries you through this difficult time.
Karen - I just wanted to let you know I may not be able to be there physically but I am thinking about you and praying for you along with many of my friends, family members and church members here in Hayesville. This tragic story is wide spread and is touching many lives. From what I have read about Chris, it seems as if he would be thrilled to know he has touched this many people and made positive changes in people he didn't know existed!! As you know, God has a purpose and a plan...even when we can't see it or begin to understand it. I am truly sorry for your loss and I send my deepest reguards!!
LIOB and mine!!!
Nancy Wintermantel
September 15, 2009
Karen, even though we only met in passing for your Grandma's 80thbirthday a few years ago at Flannery fest, I feel a kindred spirit with your deep faith and our relationship as cousins. Please accept our sincere sympathy for your incredible loss. I trust that your faith will help you over come this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Teri and Greg Ferguson
September 15, 2009
Karen,
Chris has made sure there is a special angel watching over you. He is smiling down and showering you with his love and the strength you will need to go forward. I am so thankful you moved to Raleigh and met so many wonderful new friends who have surrounded you with their love and support. I will always remember Chris's infectious smile and laughter.
He has truly touched so many lives and has taught all of us to appreciate each day.
You are a remarkable lovely woman and God will bless you in so many wonderful ways.
Erin Keith
September 15, 2009
Raynor was our neighbor and friend at ECU. He always had an open ear and a good pot of coffee brewing. I ran into him randomly at the beach last year and he was glowing and had told me he was in love. I am so glad that he found that happiness. Memories of him will live on through me and others as well. My heart goes out to all of his loved ones. We'll miss you buddy.
September 15, 2009
Chris was truly a kind person and a friend of mine all throughout school. He will be remembered by his friends and family as a wonderful person. I miss you bud.
Chris Needham
Randy Crews
September 15, 2009
Jeff and Joanne
I am very sorry to hear about your loss. I can't help but remember the fun times going camping with Jeff and Chris years ago. Our prayers are with you.
Jamee Lynch
September 15, 2009
May God bring comfort and peace to you and your family in this terrible time.
Kelly Edwards
September 15, 2009
I pray God's healing upon everyone who knew Chris and admire Karen for her continued strength in the midst of such a horrific tragedy. May God hold you Karen in the palm of his hand...
From a fellow Phi Mu...
September 15, 2009
The family and fiance of "Raynor" are in our thoughts and prayers. His contagious smile will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him.
-Liz and Justin Hott
Kathleen Rushing
September 15, 2009
Dearest Karen,
Words are not enough to express the
sympathy and sadness I feel for what
you are going through. You are greatly
loved and you were blessed to be loved
by a wonderful man. I am praying for
God's comfort and peace as you walk
through this tragic time. He will
continue to give you His grace and
strength.
Blair Hogan
September 15, 2009
Chris could make anything and everything fun... even a blown tire on the side of highway 264 as we were heading back to G-Ville. He will continue to make me and so many others smile through our fond memories of him. Chris and Karen's families and many friends are in my thoughts.
Brian J
September 15, 2009
Chris was a pledge brother of mine at ECU. May god welcome him into heaven.
Carrie Mercer
September 15, 2009
I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. I know Chris will always be remembered by the many lives he touched. Karen, your strength has been extraordinary, I know it must be coming from Chris. I continue to pray for the entire family's comfort and strength. Your faith will sustain you.
Alyson Ward
September 15, 2009
I am so thankful that this last year I got to know Chris and most certainly Chris and Karen as a couple. Although I knew Karen in college it was my great pleasure to be able to enjoy their company at several events over the last year or so; WCU homecoming, the beach, and in and around Raleigh. I will forever remember you when visiting all those places and will also cherish the great life lesson I learned over the weekend. You've taught me to let go of the little things and cherish every second of life. You would be so proud of Karen and her strengh.
Praying God continutes to bless all the families (The Taylor's and The Raynor's) and friends, especially Karen
All of my love and sorrow.
Julie Crews
September 15, 2009
Jeff and Joanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. No parent should ever have to feel the pain of losing their child. Peace be with you.
September 15, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please keep the faith. I'm feel certain my Mother has found Chris, fixed him a plate of hot cornbread and giving him a personal tour of Heaven. May God bless you all.
Love
Amy Harrison
Amanda Buchanan
September 15, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Chris was an absolute sweetheart. His love for my friend Karen was extraordinary in every way. I continue to pray and think of Karen and Chris' family. You were all an amazing witness for the love of Christ and an example of phenominal faith on Saturday. I was in awe of your strength and grace. While greatly saddened by the events of the day, I felt honored to share in remembering his beautiful life.
"loving greatly gives you strength, and being greatly loved gives you courage."
I love you Karen
Brett S
September 15, 2009
Im sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of working with Chris in my Construction Management courses at ECU. He was truly a great guy. We have lost a truly great Pirate. My prayers are with you
Holly Faison
September 15, 2009
I knew Chris when he worked with us at Barnhill. He was so nice and always cared about other people. He was a joy to be around. I remember him telling me about having Iron Chef parties with his buddies. I am so sorry for your loss, Karen, Mr. and Mrs. Raynor and other family members. May God be with your family.
With love,
Holly Faison
Kathy Taylor
September 15, 2009
Karen, sweet Karen,
You have always been the sunshine in other's lives. Now I hope you can feel the warmth of the loving thoughts and prayers that surround you.
Kathy Taylor
Rose Peak
September 15, 2009
Karen and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time and in the days to come. May the Lord continue to hold you in his Love and sustain you.
Dennis Harang
September 15, 2009
We're sorry for your loss...Chris was a good brother and great human being. He will be missed and both families will be in our prayers!
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Harang; ECU, Sig Ep
Jason Cournoyer
September 15, 2009
I lived with Chris for around 8 months during our senior year at East Carolina, and everything that has been said about him is a perfect description of the man I knew and was friends with. Chris and I always enjoyed a good long bike ride, constant ping pong grudge matches and sitting around laughing about complete randomness for hours. Simply put, Chris was a great guy and I am so sorry that I was not given the chance to tell him how happy I was for him about his wedding. Rest in peace my friend, and may good fortune find your lovely bride.
September 15, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss, he seems like an extraordinary man who will surely do great things in heaven now. My prayers are with you all...Stephanie Holder
Sarah Ballard
September 15, 2009
God bless you and your family as you grieve the loss of such a remarkable young man. I know it must bring you comfort knowing he is with our Lord. Peace be with you.
Courtney Scholl
September 15, 2009
Karen, You have shown a tremendous amount of strength and grace over the last few days. Take rest in God's arms and may his peace wrap around you. All of us here at the Embassy Suites have been praying for you and your family.
John & Amy Faulkenberry
September 15, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. The Lord is taking care of Chris now, and will get you through this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your family.
John & Amy Faulkenberry-friends of Nancy
Ruby Belin
September 15, 2009
I worked with Chris everyday and he was such a wonderful young man. Will treasure our time together on the job. Praying for the family, especially his parents-Mr. Jeff & Mrs. JoAnne Raynor.....and as he would say to me "the light of his life" Karen Taylor....and we often talked about all his college friends...will be praying for them also...."The Lord will give strength unto His people.."
September 15, 2009
Karen and Family,
May you use Chris's strength to get through the difficult times ahead. God Bless You!
Jonathan Williams
September 15, 2009
Chris and Karen were neighbors of mine and Chris would always stop and talk to me when he was either walking there dog or just coming home from work. Chris is one of the nicest people you could ever meet and I will miss him dearly. Karen my prayers are with you and with his family through this difficult time. Keep your head up because Chris is looking at you smiling.
Judy Edwards
September 15, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 15, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss, you are in my prayers. Jamie Broad Smith
Larry Taylor
September 15, 2009
May the grace, peace and love of God give comfort to my daughter Karen and to Chris's parents, Jeff and Joanne, my wife Jeanne and all the family and friends of Chris in this time of deep sorrow.
Kim Gurganus
September 15, 2009
I cannot tell you how sorry I am for this loss....though it's been a long time since I've seen him, I will truly miss him! I know what a great kid he was and I can only imagine what a special man he turned out to be. Please know that your whole family is in my thoughts and prayers. May God send you peace and comfort to help you face the days ahead...in Christian love, Kim (Terry) Gurganus
September 15, 2009
To all of Chris' family, Karen, and friends:
We were shocked and deeply saddened when our son Pete told us about Chris' tragic death the morning of his wedding day. Over the years we enjoyed watching this wonderful gang of young men and women grow up, graduate, and some were now getting married. Also these young men and women are all deeply religious and supportive of one another. We are aware of that loving support today for Chris' family, Karen, and the entire network of their friends and family.
We pray for you all and that God will continue to give all of you His peace and comfort during this time.
Joe and Jean Kosturko
Hendersonville, NC
Jason Cournoyer
September 15, 2009
I lived with Chris for around 8 months during our senior year at East Carolina, and everything that has been said about him is a perfect desciption of the man I knew and was friends with. Chris and I always enjoyed a good long bike ride, constant ping pong grudge matches and sitting around laughing about complete randomness for hours. Simply put, Chris was a great guy and I am so sorry that I was not given the chance to tell him how happy I was for him about his wedding. Rest in peace my friend, and may good fortune find your lovely bride.
J J
September 15, 2009
May God wrap his loving arms around you and comfort you. You are all in our hearts and our prayers during this time of grief.
Mark Gentry
September 15, 2009
To Jeff, Joanne and Kelly;
I know the pain is great right now but you can trust in the thought that Chris is with the Lord and he is in good hands. All my wife's and my prayers are with you always.
Forever
Mark Gentry
Abby Jacobs
September 15, 2009
I love you Ray Ray and will never forget you for as long as I live. You have taught me to wake up each morning and truly seize the day. Everytime I go on a bike ride or am among the great outdoors, I will think of you and all of the beauty you brought to the world. I know one day I will see your smiling face again in heaven. Until then, I'll be burin daylight!
September 15, 2009
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We are glad to hear that Chris knew his Lord and Savior and is now in a much better place. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Charlie and Joyce Millard
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