Elbert “David” Rayborn, 73, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at Oakview Nursing and Rehab surrounded by the love of his family. 

He was born on September 24, 1947 in Sparta, Tennessee, the son of Howard and Lura (Lowhorn) Rayborn.  He married Debra Wallace on October 6, 1968 and they were married for forty-seven years until her passing on July 3, 2016.

David faithfully served his country in the United States Army.  He was employed at Snap-On-Tools and then at Champion Laboratories until his retirement.  He loved being outdoors and would often spend his free time fishing or hunting for ginseng when in season.  He loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them.  His children grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him much joy. David attended Heartland Worship Center.  He was loved and respected by all who knew him.  He will be dearly missed.

David leaves behind his children, Scott (Mary) Rayborn and Tammy Kimmel; grandchildren, Jordan Rayborn, Gage Ellinghausen, Brice Ellinghausen, Shelby Johnson, Logan Rayborn, Mason Rayborn, Brayden Rayborn and Hallie Clagg; twelve great-grandchildren; brother, Dody (Vickie) Rayborn; sister, Aleta (Jim) Phelps; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, David was preceded in death by his parents; infant daughters, April and Misty Rayborn; brothers, Delmar, Johnny and Danny Rayborn; sisters, Dean Willis, Melba Bray, Frances Wood, Kathy Whitten, Margaret Stiles and Mildred Cowling.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 6, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.  Social distancing practices will be in place.

Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 6, 2020 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Pastor Allan Wright officiating.  David will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife at Highland Memorial Cemetery and will receive Full Military Honors.

Memorial contributions may be made in David’s memory to Wabash Rally Against Cancer, (WRAC), and will be accepted at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements.  To view David’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for the Rayborn family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com