James “Jim” Rayborn, 86, of Cherry Valley, IL passed away in his home on June 1, 2026. Jim was born February 25, 1940, in Rock Falls, IL the son to Burrus and F. Ruth (Tewell) Rayborn. He attended Rock Falls High School. Jim proudly served in the United States Marine Corp. from 1960 -1964. He married the love of his life, Joyce Davison, on January 17, 1970. Jim started work at the newly opened Chrysler plant in Belvidere, IL and retired after 34 years. He was a patient and generous man. Jim enjoyed fishing, bowling and traveling to Las Vegas, with Joyce. He was very active with their son, Mike’s activities growing up. Jim served as the vice president of the Jaycees, providing guidance and a positive impact on wayward boys. He was also a member of the Eagle’s Club. Jim will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; son, Michael (Ann) Rayborn; grandchildren, Kirstyn (Cody), Kayla, and Trevor; brother-in-law, John Zinanni; sister-in-law, Joan (Richard) Salsbury; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by his parents, Burrus and F. Ruth; sisters, Evelyn Miller, June Morse, Hazel Johnson, Dorothy Rosenow, and Sandra Shoffner; brother, John Rayborn.

The family would like to thank Northern Illinois Hospice, Elizabeth C. Zook, APRN, CNP and Dr. Philip Ovadia for the care and compassion they showed to Jim.

Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for a cause to be determined.