Edna Merle Rayborn Regan

Edna Merle Rayborn Regan, of Malvern, passed away on September 14, 2022, at the age of 108. She was born in Hampton, Ark., on November 2, 1913, to the late Johnie Arthur Rayborn and Bertha Via Rayborn. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, J. D. (Doug) Regan, brother, Dewitt Rayborn, and sister-in-law, Sue Rayborn. She is survived by her sons, John Regan (Linda), and George Regan, as well as her grandchildren, Susan Regan, Laura Recer, and Taylor Regan (Maria Jose). Also surviving are her great-grandchildren, Cate and Jack Recer, and Ethan, Ian, and Abigail Regan, as well as her nephew, John D. Rayborn and niece, Jean Collins. Edna graduated from Bearden High School in 1932 and attended Capital City Business College in Little Rock. She and Doug were married on December 11, 1938, and lived in Prescott and Rogers before moving to Malvern in 1955. After the passing of her husband on April 5, 1975, Edna continued to live in her home until she was 100, then moved to The Crossing at Malvern, an assisted living facility. She stayed alert and active until her death. One of her talents was writing poetry, an example of which you will read below. She also loved and was faithful to her church, First United Methodist Church in Malvern. Edna was a member of the Ouachita Chapter of The Daughters of the American Revolution as well as the Order of the Eastern Star. She leaves behind lots of loving friends and family. Her funeral will be on Saturday afternoon, September 17, 2022, at three o'clock, in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church with Dr. F. Gladwin Connell and Pastor Troy Conrad officiating. Interment will follow in Shadowlawn Cemetery under the direction of J. A. Funk Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Steve Efird, Mike J. Bailey, Ron Parsley, Gail West, Chris Walthall, and Chris Williams. "As my journey ends and we have to part, I'll carry precious memories in my heart. I'm thankful for my loving family and friends so dear. We walked the journey together with God always near. It was a good journey-all the way, with so many blessings every day. I'm deeply grateful to the Dear Lord above, for my faith journey-filled with love. Thanks be to God!" Edna. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, Malvern, or your favorite charity. Online condolences may be sent via: jafunkfuneralhome.com.