Obituary

James "Jimmy" Rayburn

July 14, 1946 - July 24, 2025

James “Jimmy” Rayburn, age 78, passed away July 24, 2025, in River Ridge, LA. Mr. Rayburn was a life-long resident of Bogalusa, LA, where he and his wife, Mrs. Sara enjoyed life and raised two sons. He was an amazing musician that played with American Empire and Smokey Creek, opening for Percy Sledge and The Oak Ridge Boys on several occasions. Mr. Rayburn spent his life dedicated to serving his country and community. He served in the United States Army Reserves as a military police officer, and also spent over 30 years as a civilian law enforcement officer, including serving at Bogalusa Police Department and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Department. When he had time off from work and music, he was sure to find a fishing spot to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years: Mrs. Sara Bartels Rayburn; two sons: David Rayburn, II, (Danyelle) and John Aaron “Johnny” Rayburn (Andrea); seven grandchildren: Marri-Ellen Rayburn, Anne-Elyse Rayburn, Nathan Rayburn, Sophia Rayburn, Timothy Rayburn, Joshua Harris (Krista), and Jesse Leatrice; three great-grandchildren: Lila, Jacob, and Benjamin “Ben”; and many friends and colleagues he made throughout his life.

Mr. Rayburn was preceded in death by one son: Timothy Harris; his parents: John and Hazel Rayburn; and one sister: Joy Byrom.

Brown-McGehee Funeral Home was entrusted with final arrangements.

Services will be at Brown-McGehee Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on July 27, 2025 and resume on July 28, 2025 at 9:00 AM. The Funeral Service will follow at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at Hillview Cemetery in Bogalusa.