Rayburn Harper, 88, of Irwin County, Georgia, died Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at his residence.
Funeral services will be held 11 AM, Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Irwin County, Georgia, with the Rev. James Griffin and the Rev. John Gibbs Jr., officiating. The interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from, 6PM until 8PM, at the funeral home in Ocilla.
Mr. Harper was born November 25, 1937, in Irwin County Georgia, to the late John Willie “Bill” and Lola Estelle McDaniel Harper. Mr. Harper was a lifelong farmer, loved horses and was an avid wild game hunter. He was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Irwin County and served as a Deacon and the former Sunday School Director.
He is survived by his children: Stanley Ray Harper & Kris, Martha Ann Kile & Charlie and Barbara Gail Harper, all of Irwin County; grandchildren: Sara Deanna Harper, Leslie Ann Harper, Kristin Raye Brand & Alex, Mallory Lynn Johnson & Jennings, Marissa Gail Bose & Carlis, Mason Harper Bose, and Mattan Lawrence Bose & Kayleigh, Tyler Harris, Chelsie Kane & Jeremy, and Cassie Rayl & Peter; a sister, Marilla Harper; a brother, Earl Harper; and his loving caregiver, Christine Young. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Spicer Harper and a brother, Dennis Harper.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests those desiring to send memorials, please send them to the Bethlehem Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 27, Ocilla, Georgia, 31774.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.