Rayle Baird Elliott

Rayle Elliott, 80, farmer, died Saturday, August 23, 2025.

Rayle was born on July 1, 1945, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, to Loren and Nellie Elliott. He grew up on the Elliott farm east of Mount Hope alongside his older sister and five brothers. Rayle attended Mount Hope Grade School and graduated from Mount Hope High School in 1963.

As a boy, he enjoyed trapping and selling furs for spending money. After high school, he furthered his education at Kansas State University, completing a short course in farm management in March of 1964, and then returned to the family farm in Mount Hope.

Rayle farmed with his dad, Loren, and his brothers, Bob and Joe, on what became known as Elliott and Sons, Inc. Over the years, he purchased land and added several shiny John Deere tractors and equipment to the operation.

On Valentine’s Day 1976, at the urging of his big brother Bob, Rayle invited Carlene O’Neal of Bentley to the Sweetheart Banquet at the Federated Church in Mount Hope. That evening was the beginning of a beautiful match, and Rayle and Carlene were married on May 28, 1977.

They made their home in Mount Hope, where Rayle continued farming and Carlene taught in the Halstead-Bentley school district. Together they raised three children: Rodney Rayle, Ryan Lee, and Lori Ann.

Rayle had a servant’s heart. He was the best mailman, trashman, and gas attendant his family could ask for, always spoiling them by making sure their tanks were filled. The grandkids affectionately called him “the Butler” because he was always there to care for them, opening snacks, refilling water, and making sure they had what they needed. He was also active in the community, serving on the Federated Church Board as both a member and president, and on the Mount Hope Co-Op Advisory Board.

Rayle’s favorite hobby was to work. If the work was finished, he would create work around the house and farm. Rayle did love television—westerns, Deal or No Deal, K-State basketball, and even the occasional show about chasing Sasquatch.

But above all else, Rayle loved his family. His grandchildren gave him the nickname “Pa,” a title he wore with great pride. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Rayle accepted Jesus at a young age and leaves behind a legacy of faith for his children and grandchildren. He led by example throughout his life. His gentle presence and steadfast love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Carlene; his children, Rodney (Jenny) Elliott of Mount Hope and Lori (Joe) Fahrbach of Houston, Texas; and his grandchildren, Ethan, Kailee, Brianna, and Lauren Elliott, and Anna and Dean Fahrbach.

He is also survived by his siblings, Angie Carlson, Richard (Patricia) Elliott, Bill Elliott, and Jon Elliott.

Rayle was preceded in death by his son, Ryan; his parents, Loren and Nellie; his brothers, Bob and Joe; and his nephew, Gary Cupps.

Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am, Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Pathway Church – Goddard Campus. Interment will follow at 12:30 pm at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Mt. Hope, Kansas.

Memorials have been established with: Pathway Church, 2001 N. Maize Road, Wichita, KS 67212 or Mt. Hope EMS, c/o City of Mt. Hope, 112 W. Main, Mt. Hope, KS 67108.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – West Chapel.