Obituary of Christy Lynn Rayman

Christy Lynn Rayman's beautiful free spirit left her on January 28, 2011 in the arms of angels. She was surrounded by her family, friends, and four dogs. Now as Spring has turned to Winter, as warmth has given way to cold, as the current has become too strong, and as the light has dimmed to dark, it is time for her to rest. Christy loved all creatures, big and small. Her strengths were attention to detail and project management skills. She loved gardening and preferred her gardens eclectic and uninhibited. Zinnias were her favorite flower. She enjoyed dancing, French gourmet cooking, medium rare steaks, seafood, sushi, and dry martinis. She was a follower of Gamecock football and baseball, liked Plymouth Valiants, telling jokes, playing tricks, hanging out at Anthony's, trout fishing, and American Indian culture. Among her favorite things to do was watching sunrises at the beach and visting the mountains in the Fall. She loved poetry, especially the works of Edna St. Vincent Millay. She grew up in the United Methodist denomination, winning awards for perfect attendance and speaking often in front of the congregation. She completed the Clemson Extension Master Gardener Program in 2003, then went on to complete the Master Naturalist Program in 2007. These two wonderful programs built further upon the foundation her dad, Pat, laid for Christy as he taught her about the love of nature and the ways of the outdoors. Christy was born in Frostburg, Maryland, to Anna Jean and Patrick Souders on July 9, 1957. She graduated from Beall High School and received her B.S. Degree from Old Dominion University. She is survived by husband, Todd Rayman; daughter, Sarah (Nick) Meehan; son, Justin (Ingrid) Matthews; granddaughter, Hannah Grace Matthews; father, Patrick (Connie) Souders; brothers, Andy (Kristen) Souders and Patrick (Jane) Souders; and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her mother, Anna Jean Souders. Christy has left behind numerous friends. Visitation will be January 31, at 2 o'clock with the memorial service celebrating Christy's life following at 3 o'clock at Woodridge Memorial Park, 138 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC 29072. Memorials may be made to the Junior Master Gardener Program in care of Amanda Segura, Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens, P. O. Box 1060, Columbia, SC 29202-1060 or to a charity of one's choice. The family would also like to thank South Carolina Oncology, Dr. Kudrick, nurses Tami, Carla, Cheryl, and additional staff for the care provided to Christy. We would also like to thank the staff of Tri-County Hospice, especially Kay and Josette, for the care provided to Christy.