Bill Gene Rayl

Bill Gene Rayl, 90, of Filer, Idaho, passed away peacefully in his home with family and loved ones present on the 29th of September 2024.

Bill was born on February 9th, 1934, to parents Robert “Buddy” Rayl and Pearl Watson Rayl in Twin Falls, ID. Bill farmed and ranched in the Twin Falls County area including Hollister along the Salmon Tract and various areas south of Filer.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Buddy and Pearl Rayl, his sisters Mary Lou Konzas and Roberta “Bobbie” Crawford, his daughter Deborah Rayl, his stepson David Hancock, and his granddaughters Michelle Machado and Bobbie Hess.

Bill is survived by his wife of 52 years, Helen “Pepper” Rayl, daughter Pamela (Ron McCallum) Rayl, daughter Lisa (Robert) Branning, stepson Wayne (Ju) Hancock, son Kenneth (Angela) Rayl, stepson Donald Gregory Hancock, 13 grandchildren, and 26 greatgrandchildren.

Bill loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and he especially loved taking them fishing. Bill bragged that he had fished every lake and stream in Idaho.

Bill loved his dogs over the years, especially Patches, Small Fry, and Amigo.

Bill loved motorcycles and enjoyed touring surrounding areas and rode even until almost 88 years of age. He also loved snowmobiling and particularly enjoyed the South Hills, Yellowstone, and Jackson Hole.

In the last decades of his life, Bill had a home in Coolidge, AZ where he spent winters, made many friends, and enjoyed learning about Native American culture.

Bill was passionate about politics and an avid Trump supporter. Bill was eagerly anticipating the 2024 presidential election and desperately hoped he would be able to vote for Donald Trump, which he did by mail on September 23rd, 2024.

One of Bill’s favorite religious hymns was “In the Garden” by Red Foley. The message reassured him that the Son of God knows him and shares his joy as He walks and talks with him “in the garden.”

The family expresses their appreciation to Auburn Crest Hospice Care and the many kind and gentle people who cared for Bill. A special thanks is also extended to his doctor, Dr. Brian Fortuin.

His wife would also like to expressly thank Bill’s daughters, Lisa and Pamela, for their help in his care.

Family and friends may honor Bill in a celebration of life held at Wilks Magic Valley Funeral Home (2551 Kimberly Rd, Twin Falls, ID 83301) on the 8th of October 2024 at 1:00 pm.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below.