
James “Jim” Rayburn, 79, of Virginia Beach, Virginia passed away on February 4, 2021.
Jim was born on January 27, 1942 in Chowchilla, California to Norman and Margaret Rayburn. He graduated from Chowchilla Union High School in 1960 and joined the United States Navy. While stationed in Rota, Spain he fell in love and married his lifelong wife, Loli Rayburn in her home town of Chipiona. From there they then traveled from Spain to Italy, and all around the United States with their 3 children.
After retiring from both the United States Navy and the United States Postal Service, Jim spent his time traveling with his beloved wife to Spain and in the United States; visiting family, children and grandchild.
Jim was as kind as he was stubborn, providing for his family, who meant more to him than anything else in the world; something he often mentioned. Anyone who knew Jim knew that he had a big heart, and a ready smile. His presence will be missed by all who knew him.
Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Loli Rayburn; his sons James “Jimmy”, David and Joseph “Joselito”; his daughter-in-law Maritza, son-in-law Josh and grandson James “Little Jimmy”.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
We met Loli & Jim in the Total Hotel in Sigonella, Sicily when Jim and Ray were both stationed there. We had a VW Beetle, but Jim’s car wasn’t there yet, so we would all pile into the bug and go house hunting. Joseph was not born yet, so Jimmy and David would take turns sitting in the little jump seat in the back. We ended up finding apartments in the same building and loved going to our favorite pizza place together. We came there so often, that they didn’t even need to take our order. But our favorite thing to do was to play cards – and Loli and I would swap cards, and Jim would get so mad, but he usually won anyway! When Jim & Loli bought a new VW camper, we went with Jim as he drove it to Spain as that was where Loli & boys were for the summer. He was so proud of that camper!
I’m sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family.