Mr. Geoffrey R. "Geoff" Rayner

MARCY - Mr. Geoffrey R. “Geoff” Rayner, age 68, went to his Lord as he passed away on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center in the arms of his loving wife. Born in Ephrata, Pennsylvania on September 25, 1948, Geoffrey was the son of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Hensel) Rayner. As a family, they relocated to Rome where he was raised and educated, a graduate of Rome Free Academy/Class of 1966. He continued his education at Morrisville College and upon graduation he was drafted into the United States Army where he honorably served his country in Vietnam as a Medic from 1969-1971. Among his military citations and medals, he was most proud of his Combat Medic Service Medal. When he returned stateside he enrolled in M.V.C.C., concentrating his studies in nursing, graduating in 1974. He concurrently worked at the Utica Psychiatric Center. Geoff worked in his profession as a Registered Nurse at the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center for more than 34 years caring for many people with diverse needs. He retired in 2005. On May 5, 1984 he married the former Lori L. Lenticchia who was attracted to his dry humor and his warm heart. Geoff’s love and gentle smile sustained their 33 year union. A skilled craftsman, his mechanical and manual dexterity was amazing. His “dream garage” was his haven where he worked at repair and body restoration of cars and bikes. He built motorcycles from parts and was a man of many tools and toys. He was a master of many tasks but KP Duty was not high on his list of priorities. Geoff was humble and simple in his needs. He had a soft spot for animals, especially his cats. He was an intelligent man who unpretentiously shared his knowledge. He was kind and accepted others without judgment. All in all, he was a good man and enjoyed his life, especially with his wife at his side. The outdoors was his home, and riding an open road on his bike was a high time for him. While indoors, computer challenges, a good movie, or a military history documentary energized and engaged his mind. His classic vinyl record collection from the 60’s and 70’s was his go to music and a source of good memories. He was a New York Yankees fan and was forced to be a Buffalo Bills devotee by his devoted Lori! He was a member of the American Legion Parkhurst Post #1448, 7908 State Route 69, Oriskany. Geoff was of the Lutheran faith and his altruistic acts bespoke his belief in salvation through God’s grace and guidance. Geoff is survived by his wife, Lori; his brothers and sisters-in-law, George and JoAnn Rayner of Oregon, and Gordon and Ella Mae Rayner of Georgia; his mother-in-law, Lydia Lenticchia; and his sister-in-law and her husband, Linda and Joe DiFrancisco. He will also be remembered by his nieces and nephews, especially acknowledging John and Liz Barbato, Joseph Barbato and fiancée Brandi Lamkin, and their children. Geoff was blessed with a best friend, David Rowlands, as well as a host of great people who were dear friends and neighbors. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Joseph Lenticchia. The family is grateful to the incredible staff of the entire campus of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially the personnel of the Special Care Unit who were angels in a time of need. On all levels, they were outstanding, honest, and compassionate. The family also extends appreciation to the Stittville Fire Department for their response and efforts, and hospitable neighbors for their kind acts. Lori would like to thank her family and friends for their love and support during these past few years. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Geoffrey’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Betty Giarrusso, CSJ officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Geoff’s memory may make a contribution to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at https://www.stjude.org or the American Legion Post #1448, 7908 State Route 69, Oriskany, NY 13424; envelopes will be available at the service. Please hug the people who are an important part of your life, for tomorrow is never promised.

Mr. Geoffrey R. "Geoff" Rayner

September 25, 1948 - September 19, 2017