Janice Lee Rayburn: 1942 – 2024
Janice Lee Rayburn, also known as Jan, passed away on December 20, 2024, at Central Wyoming Hospice and Transitions, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 11, 1942, in Cheyenne, and was the cherished daughter of Oliver and Dora Lock who are now with her in heaven.
Throughout her remarkable life, Jan enjoyed a career as a dedicated teacher and a Special Needs Aid, devoting herself to the education and betterment of those she encountered. Her lifetime of commitment to others extended beyond the classroom; she was a beacon of support and strength for her husband of 54 years, Jim Rayburn, and their sons, Norman and Troy, and many “Adopted” children. Jan’s presence in the lives of her grandchildren —Jazmin, Matt, Joylynn, Mark, and Sarah —and her numerous great-grandchildren was a source of immense joy and an unyielding foundation of love.
Jan was a woman of many passions and hobbies. She could often be found engaging in a head-to-head game of Kings in the Corner with Jim, as well as other games, filling rooms with music from her organ and accordion, or tending to her vibrant flower gardens. Her creativity flowed into her sewing and cooking, where each stitch and recipe was infused with warmth and care. Above all, she embraced the act of helping others, volunteering at various organizations and proudly raising her family within a Christian home.
Her personality showed through her quick wit, strength, and generous spirit. Jan was a loving force in the lives of those fortunate enough to know her; her kindness touched many hearts, leaving behind vibrant memories that will be cherished forever.
Jan is survived by her husband, Jim Rayburn; her sons, Norman and Troy and their spouses; her grandchildren: Jazmin, Matt, Joylynn, Mark, and Sarah; and a host of great-grandchildren, bringing her legacy to new generations.
A Memorial Service to honor her life will be held at 2 p.m. on December 27, 2024, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 710 East Second Street in Casper, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the light she brought to the world. Reception information will be announced at the service.
Barbara J Bobbitt: 1940 – 2024
Barbara J. Bobbitt of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away at Life Care Center of Cheyenne December 18, 2024. She was born on January 21, 1940, in Enid, Oklahoma.
Barbara had many friends who loved her kind and joyful spirit. She spent many hours doing volunteer work at the Cheyenne Animal Shelter, where she adopted her little dog, Maltie.
Her love of children made her a great teacher. She taught English and drama at Central High School for 31 years.
She loved to travel to Italy and China. She adopted foster children in Ethiopia and China and enjoyed their many letters.
Barbara is survived by her brother, James Bobbitt, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and a niece, Dina M. Miller of San Mateo, California.
A Celebration of Life will take place April 19, 2025, from 11 a.m. to12 p.m. at Schrader Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home in Cheyenne, Wyoming. A reception to honor her life will take place immediately after from 12 to 2 p.m.
Gregory Lee Cederburg: 1950 – 2024
Gregory Lee Cederburg, 74, of Cheyenne, WY, passed peacefully at Davis Hospice Center on December 22, 2024.
Greg, born December 21, 1950, was the only child of a Cheyenne native resident, Jo Ann Palmer, and a panhandle farm boy, R. Lee Cederburg, who moved to Cheyenne in 1947 to chase his dream of being in the motorcycle business. Of course, Greg, too, became enamored with the thrill of two wheels. Greg became a successful local and regional motorcycle racer, competing in scrambles and flat track races in the 1960s and 1970s. Greg’s success in racing didn’t stop there, as he also competed in stock car racing events at Big Country Speedway and circle tracks up and down the Front Range. He had many local fans who loved to watch his natural racing talents.
Greg retired from racing in 1978 but had always retained his love for motorcycles, fast cars, and boats. He would pass on the love of motorcycles to his kids as he taught them all how to ride. He loved to show off, popping wheelies for hundreds of feet and displaying the art of flat-track style riding. Greg was fearless behind the handlebars or a steering wheel. Greg was greatly loved for his always friendly demeanor and sense of humor. He loved to tell silly jokes, make new friends, and hang out with his motorcycle buddies. He loved his wife deeply and all his children. He was always a proud “Pop” or “Papa” of his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Debbie Cederburg (McHone); his son, Tim Cederburg (Jessie) of Arizona; his daughters, JoEllen Connolly (Brandon) of Wyoming and Fay Baker (Tim) of Washington; his stepsons, Trey Woods (Rudy) of Oregon and Clint Woods of Wyoming; and daughter-in-law ,Brandy Tucker of Wyoming; 13 grandchildren: Ashley Cederburg, Thomas Cederburg, Noah Cederburg, Chadron Hockley, Kaycee Hockley, Jalen Rudolph, Deviani Rudolph, Ezekiel Rudolph, Eviana Rudolph, Owen Woods, Andy Woods, Cierra Woods and Makenzie Woods (Caden); and three great-grandchildren: Rhiannon Cederburg, Rylin Cederburg, and Koa Rudolph. He is also survived by a cousin, Lisa Hart of Colorado, and many other cousins throughout Colorado and Nebraska.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Jo Cederburg; grandson, Dusty; granddaughter, Kylyn; cousin, Chris Brachle; and many aunts and uncles.
A special “Thank you” to his daughter-in-law, Brandy Tucker, and her children, Cierra and Makenzie (Caden), for supporting Greg’s daily needs over the last year. Their efforts allowed Greg to remain at home throughout his illness.
As Greg wished, no funeral services will be held. Cremation has taken place at Cheyenne Memorial Gardens under the direction of Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel of Chimes.
A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, June 22, 2025, 2 p.m., at the Kiwanis Community House in Lion’s Park.
You may contact the family with condolences at JoEllen Connolly, 87 14th Street, Wheatland, WY 82201 or jolovesalisa@yahoo.com.
Louise Kay Maher: 1942 – 2024
Louise Kay Maher, formerly known as Louise Ruckdeschell, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, at the age of 82. Born on January 6, 1942, in Bates City, Missouri, Louise’s life was one of love, resilience, and devotion to her family.
Louise was the beloved wife of Bruce Maher, with whom she shared a life full of cherished memories. Louise’s spirit will continue to live on through her family, who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.
Louise is survived by her children, Kathleen Kay Flynn and Alfredo Manuel Martinez. She was deeply loved by her siblings: Charles Robert Ruckdeschell, Thomas Ruckdeschell, and Janice Ruckdeschell, who admired her warmth and unwavering support throughout their lives. Louise’s presence brought joy to those around her, and her family is grateful for the many moments they shared.
Louise is preceded in death by her father, John Arthur Ruckdeschell, and her mother, Edna Emma Patterson Ruckdeschell, whose love and guidance shaped the remarkable person she became. She is also survived by the memories of her sisters: Mildred Fay Ruckdeschell, Naomi Jean Ruckdeschell, and Delores Ruckdeschell, who have all passed, but whose spirits remain intertwined with hers.
Louise was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many. As we remember her today, we celebrate a life that was dedicated to family, a heart that was generous, and a spirit that was indomitable. She will be missed dearly by those who had the privilege of knowing her.
JhaRee Diann Miller: 1970 – 2024
JhaRee Diann Miller, 54, of Cheyenne, having been made whole by that great physician, and her savior, Jesus Christ, was promoted to glory after a brave and protracted battle with rheumatoid disease. She passed at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She was born February 7, 1970, in Ft. Worth, Texas to Jerry Don and Diann Mahaffey.
JhaRee lived in Bowie, Texas, was a member of Bible Baptist Church, and attended Bowie High School. Upon graduation, she attended Baptist Bible College, Springfield, Missouri, where she met her husband, Tommy. They were united in marriage, in June 1990. Together, they served the lord as members of Bellview Baptist Church, Springfield. Tommy and JhaRee entered fulltime gospel ministry in June 1994, serving first at the Grace Bible Baptist Church, Casper, Wyoming, and later church-planting and pastoring in the communities of Edgemont, South Dakota, and Osage, Wyoming. They have led the Faith Baptist Church in Cheyenne, since January 2009.
JhaRee was a dedicated mother and pastor’s wife, church administrator, church pianist, and the volunteer program manager for Wyoming Gospel Radio (KWYG, 98.5 FM). She had also worked in hospital administration and human resources. Hobbies included jewelry making, tole painting, lace tatting, cross-stitching, crocheting, and art. JhaRee valued personal proficiency and cherished loyal friendships.
JhaRee was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Roy Wallace and Thelma Geneva “Jane” Williams; and her paternal grandparents, C L and Zelma Mahaffey.
JhaRee is survived by her spouse, Tommy Lee Miller, Jr.; two daughters, Ginger and Shelby; a son, Takoda; and one granddaughter, River JhaLee, all of Cheyenne; her father, Jerry Don (Belinda) Mahaffey of Bowie, Texas; her mother, Diann Ekins Mahaffey of Cheyenne. JhaRee is also survived by one brother, two sisters, and several nieces and nephews.
A home-going celebration will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Dec. 27, at Faith Baptist Church, 708 E Prosser Rd, Cheyenne, Wyoming. At JhaRee’s request, “bright and happy clothing” may be worn. Interment will follow at Mountain View Memorial Park, Yellowstone Rd, Cheyenne. Afterwards, a reception meal will be served in the church Fellowship Hall for JhaRee’s friends and family.
Public viewing will be 10 a.m., to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26 at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel of the Chimes, 1900 E 19th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
Kenneth “Zeke” Zegan: 1950 – 2024
Kenneth “Zeke” Zegan, 74, passed away after a courageous battle with illness. A devoted family man, he is survived by his wife, Vicki (70); children: Aaron (40), Anthony (38), Leah (38), and Joshua (35); and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Myrtle and Florian Zegan.
Zeke worked tirelessly as a construction worker before returning to school at 48, earning his nursing degree at 50. His career in healthcare reflected his deep care for others, and he provided compassionate support to countless patients. A lifelong golfer, he found joy competing on the course.
Known for sayings like “Work smarter, not harder,” Zeke taught his family the values of sacrifice, love, and hard work. His lessons molded his family and inspired them to help others. Zeke will be deeply missed.
Services will be at Calvary Chapel, 1 p.m., January 7, 2025.
