Donald Raybern Obituary

Memorial services for Donald Richard Raybern, 77, Lawrence, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 30, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Lawrence. Don passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022, from Parkinson's complications at his home, surrounded by family.

Don was born on March 10, 1945, in Lawrence, KS, the son of Joseph N. and Margaret E. (Severns) Raybern. Don graduated from Lecompton High School in 1963 and served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1968. He graduated from the KU School of Social Welfare in 1975 and earned a Master of Social Work from KU in May 1976. He worked as a school social worker in the Topeka USD 501 district and at St John's Catholic School. He ended his career working 15 years as a Special Education Paraprofessional for the Lawrence USD 497 district.

He married Shari Vick on February 14, 1969, at First United Methodist Church in Lawrence.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Shari, his daughters Jennifer Raybern and Kelli (Randall) Hedges, grandchildren Brea, Joshua and Dylan Hedges, sister Martha, brother Gary, aunt Sally (Guy) Coffman, brother-in-law Kevan (Gail) Vick, sisters-in law Ardie, Melinda and Dixie, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don was an avid traveler, visiting all 50 states, and many extended trips to New Zealand to see his grandchildren. These trips often involved National Parks and historical sites as Don loved the outdoors and history. Don collected rocks, and Native American art. He was known for his pancakes and baking, loved reading, and attended KU sporting events with his wife. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church and volunteered at LMH Health.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, many siblings, and other cherished family.

The family would like to thank all of those who helped him battle Parkinson's and treated him with kindness. Also, thanks to his caregivers, the LMH Health staff, and Douglas County Visiting Nurses Association Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Don's name to the First United Methodist Church Jubilee Cafe or Lawrence Humane Society and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

For more information or to post a condolence, go to warrenmcelwain.com.