RALEIGH, NC -- Barbara Jean Medlin Raynor, 87, of Raleigh and formerly of Louisburg passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025.
Born in Franklin County, NC, on July 18, 1938, she was the beloved daughter of the late Nobe Desmond Medlin and Edna Winstead Medlin. She was the loving wife of 67 years to the late A. Stuart Raynor.
She is survived by her son Archie Raynor (Julie) of Durham, NC, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and sister Merle Medlin Edwards.
Barbara was born and raised in Franklin County and graduated from Louisburg High School. She attended Greensboro Women's College and Louisburg College before transferring to Meredith College, where she graduated in 1960. Barbara went on to dedicate 33 years to teaching in the Wake County School System, shaping the lives of countless students with her kindness and passion for education. She was also a longtime member of Alpha Delta Kappa (Gamma Lambda chapter) teacher sorority. A devoted member of New Hope Baptist Church, she lived her faith through service and friendship. Barbara cherished time spent with her family and friends, especially her beloved groups--the "Ya-Ya Sisters," "The Birthday Club," and many other circles of dear companions. She had a joyful spirit, a deep love for Christmas, and a gift for finding beauty in all things -- whether in flowers, at the beach, a Christmas tree, or in the laughter of children.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Centerville Baptist Church, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends immediately after the service in the church fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one of the following: Gamma Lambda chapter ADK Scholarship Fund, C/O Anna Corbett 2552 Holiday Avenue, Zebulon, NC 27597, or to Centerville Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 5741 NC 561 Hwy. Louisburg, NC 27549.
Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg, www.stricklandfuneralhome.net
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