John William Raley

John William Raley was born on September 8, 1941 to William Foster (Sam) Raley and Maudie Lee Raley, joining his older siblings, Warren, Tom and Ruby. A few years later, his younger brother, Charley, was born and the Raley Family was complete. John attended Arcata High School, where he met Sandy DeRossett. They married in February of 1960 and their two daughters were born in 1961 (Susan Renée in January and Cheryl Kay in December). They eventually settled in the Sacramento area, as did his parents and siblings, making family get-togethers easy and well-attended, and camping, boating & water skiing, card & domino games, and LOTS of ping-pong possible. Three grandchildren, Dustin, Shannon and Kenny were born as the girls came of age. After many years of love and laughter, the “family that played together” lost Sandy, who died before the age of 50 in 1990, a victim of cancer. After her death, John’s successful career in the computer industry continued, and he remained very close to his daughters, siblings, and the many select friends that he considered family. He retired at the age of 65, and his life became quiet – a little too quiet – and for several years it was just John and Gertie, his faithful little four-legged canine companion. Then John met Judy. There was a sparkle in his eye and his heart began to beat in a way it hadn’t for a long, long time. After a little convincing, he won her over and for these last years of his life, Judy was his best friend, his partner and wife --a much-loved treasure of the entire Raley family. John was preceded in death by his parents and his older brothers, Warren and Tom. He is survived by his wife Judy; his much loved sister, Ruby Francis & her husband Jim; “little” brother, Charles Raley & his wife, Nancy; daughters, Renée Raley (& partner Peter Grubbs ) and Cheryl Minikel (& husband, Dave). John had three biological grandchildren, Dustin Raley, Shannon Howard and Kenny Howard; two step-grandchildren, Jessie King and Jackson Brown; ten greatgrandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

The world was a better place with John in it. Hopefully, enough of him lives on in the hearts of those he left behind to keep the light of this wise, witty, kind, good man shining.

Celebration of Life

11:30 a.m.to 4:00 p.m. on March 13, 2026

Kilaga Springs Lodge, Sun City Lincoln Hills

1167 Sun City Boulevard, Lincoln California