James Rayner

James Thomas Rayner, 83 of Paradise Hill Lane, Midland died Saturday, March 28, 2020 at UPMC Western Maryland, Cumberland.  Born in Gilmore, December 21, 1936 he was the son of the late David A. Rayner and Marguerite C. James. He was preceded in death by his brother, David “Nook” Jones.

Jim started out his younger days working for his father’s business, Pine Mountain Coal Company, where he learned to run heavy equipment. He then worked for Jim Thrasher operating a shovel. He retired from the Kelly Springfield Tire Company in 1987 after 25 years of service. Simultaneously, he was part owner of and continued to work for many years in the family business, Pine Mountain Coal.

He enjoyed playing his mandolin in a bluegrass/gospel band called, “Broken Glass and Rusty Hinges”. This band became his extended family and they will miss him terribly. Jim was a lifetime member of the Midland Sportsman’s Club. Everyone who knew Jim shared in his positivity, never easily angered; he kept on the bright side of life regardless of the circumstances.

Jim has been married to the love of his life, Dorothy (House) Rayner since January 4, 1958. He is survived by three children Dave and wife Lisa of Avilton, Jim and girlfriend Lynne Bullerman of Iowa and Susan Duckworth and husband John of Frostburg; three grandchildren Jamie Keister and husband Michael, Sarah Duckworth and John Wesley Duckworth; one great-granddaughter Macey Marie Keister, aka “Sweetie Pie”; three siblings Sue Howser, Bob Rayner and wife Sharon and Sherry Fazenbaker and husband Olen and a special sister-in-law Betsy Magruder. He is also survived by his best friends Pat Skipper, Edna Clark, Bill Tietz and Linda James. He had many special nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at the Wilhelm-Eakin Funeral Home, P.A., Midland and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilhelmeakin.com .

Jim’s family wishes to thank the Home Health Care, Progressive Care Unit, 6 ^th Floor Rehab Unit, special CNA Robert Wilt, doctors, nurses and staff of Western Maryland UPMC, Pastor Roger Kitzmiller and Chaplain Bruce for the exceptional care Jim received.

In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be sent in memory of Jim to the Midland Fire Company at 14823 Broadway St., Midland, MD 21532 and the George’s Creek Ambulance Service at 19 Union St., Lonaconing, MD 21539.