James “Jimbo” Durward Rayl, 58, Kokomo

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 10:06 AM

James “Jimbo” Durward Rayl, 58, Kokomo, passed away at 12:51 pm on Monday, April 21, 2025, at his home.

He was born in Akron, OH on March 16, 1967, the son of James “Jim” Lee and Nancy A. (Ousley) Rayl. He married Laurie Moss at Grace UMC in Kokomo, on December 31, 1998, and she survives.

Jimbo graduated from Kokomo High School in 1985 and attended Indiana Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) where he was on the basketball team. He also attended Ball State University. He retired from the UPS after 30 years of service and was currently working as an Insurance Agent for State Farm at the Brian Cossell Agency. Jimbo was instrumental in bringing Orange Leaf to Kokomo. He was also a co-owner. Jimbo also owned a small business called Flip Flask with a friend. He enjoyed Door Dashing, and he was proud of achieving Platinum Status. Jimbo was an avid sports fan, he enjoyed F1 racing, Indy Car racing, watching the Cubs and Purdue basketball. He was on the Board of Directors for the Kokomo Bobkats organization, and he was a huge fan of Indiana Basketball High School. Jimbo was a regular at the Kokomo YMCA and made his acting debut in the classic movie Hoosiers.

Along with his wife Laurie Rayl, James is survived by his children, Jace Rayl and Rhys Rayl; mother, Nancy Rayl; siblings, Ginger (Roger Houghton) Rayl, and Tom Rayl; nieces & nephews, Nancy Fortin, Thomas Fortin, Anna Rayl, Marianne Moss, and Michael Moss; brother-in-law, Brad (Elizabeth) Moss; mother-in-law, Barbara Moss; and father-in-law, Larry Moss.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Rayl; and brother, Tim Rayl.

A funeral service celebrating James’ life will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Crossroads Community Church, 4254 S 00 EW, Kokomo, with Mark Malin officiating.

Friends may visit with the family from 4 pm to 7 pm on Monday April 28, 2025, at the church.

Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shirley & Stout Funeral Home to go towards Jace’s and Rhys’ College fund.

Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.