J. Loring Rayner

Jabez Loring Rayner Jr. grew up in Summerside and had a difficult childhood under the tyranny of his father. As a result, not only was he conflicted about his name, he loathed bullies and intentionally worked hard to be a better man. Loring adored the peace and beauty of nature, the gifts of science, space exploration, animals-especially dogs( Sasha, Dex, William, Dan, Monty) and all forms of classical music. He competed in music festivals throughout childhood and started his degree in piano performance at Mount Allison. For years, he played the piano to decompress after his workday. The biggest discussion in our house was, who is the greater artist- Mozart or Beethoven? Dad worked hard as a high school teacher at the Rural in the 70’s and then as a junior high teacher at East Wiltshire for many years. He loved educational theory, philosophy and had a heart for kids that struggled in school. Over many summers he finished his Masters in Education in 1988. He was a born Island storyteller and, in another time, could have had a career in standup comedy.

Loring was married to Judy ( nee Waite of Kensington) for 59 years. As Dad to Sandra (John) and Ryan (Rachel), he encouraged his children (and his students) to think critically for themselves-and to pursue their own dreams. He adored his sisters and his brothers in law( Mary (James Hawley) Margaret ( Wes Collicutt) and Melda (Colin McBeth) along with his brother Bob (Bev). All those Rayner parties! In the 1970’s, he built his dream house in the rural beauty and silence of Riverdale. How he loved to cut that grass on his ride-on! He was like a son to his parents-in-law, Doris and Keith Waite and cherished his time at the family cottage at Darnley. Dad suffered greatly over these last years with a degenerative brain disorder and as such his passing was a blessing. Loring leaves behind a solid legacy of love with those who will miss him. He leaves behind the next generation of family, the next dream chasers- his grandchildren: James Kessler, Abigail, Katie, Hailey, Laura and Kelly Rayner.

The family would especially like to thank all his carers/ doctors/ nurses over these many years particularly the staff at the Prince Edward Home.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a private graveside service (Davison Funeral Home) later this summer for the immediate family. Thank you for doing your best as both husband and father. May you rest in God’s Peace which passes all understanding.

www.davisonfh.com