Barbara Jean

Raynor

A bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her, Barbara Jean Raynor, 83, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on November 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Jean was born to the late Eula Belle Aycock Carter and James Graham Carter of Micro, North Carolina.

She was the loving wife of James “Lebo” Raynor for nearly 65 years, and a devoted mom to Wanda (Jeff) Smith, Ricky (Margaret) Raynor, Liz (the late Andy) Edgerton, and Tracey (Ricky) Godwin. Her legacy of love continues through her 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She also leaves her twin sister, Patricia Ann McCarty and her brother, Michael Carter.

Jean was a woman of remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mama, nanny and nana, yet her impact reached far beyond her family. With a big smile always on her face, she was the brightest light in every room and a true blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

That same selfless spirit carried her through life’s challenges, where her steady trust in the Lord became an inspiration to everyone watching. Jean never hesitated to put others before herself, always ready to share whatever she had with anyone in need. She lived out that generosity every day by serving students through her work with Johnston County Public schools and giving her time as a dedicated member at Parrish Memorial Baptist Church. Beyond her work and church, Jean loved staying active in her community, whether she was taking part in the Special Olympics, volunteering for Relay for Life, or enjoying trips with the Red Hat Society.

Above all, her family was her greatest joy. She loved her family unconditionally. She found her greatest joys in the simple moments, from family gatherings, shopping trips, looking at Christmas lights, to home-cooked meals—especially her chicken pastry and hotdogs every Friday. And she never missed an opportunity to remind Lebo to eat his food “before it got cold”.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 15 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at Parrish Funeral Home 1351 S Pollock Street, Selma, North Carolina. Funeral services will take place on Monday, November 16, at 1:00 pm at Parrish Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Steven Walker, with words of remembrance shared by David Allen. Flowers are welcome at Parrish Funeral Home, or in lieu of flower, contributions may be made to Bright Minds Behavioral Health Center to fund the Jean Raynor “Heart of Service” Scholarship, honoring Jean’s lifelong spirit of selfless giving.