Raburne Silkwood

Raburne Lloyd Silkwood, avid New Orleans Saints fan, Western movie enthusiast, accomplished child wrangler, baby shusher, and connoisseur of the perfect cup of black coffee, passed away peacefully at The Carpenter House of St. Joseph Hospice on Saturday, July 3, 2021, with his family by his side.

Raburne was born July 15, 1937 to the late Arrie Vennie Williams and John Herman Silkwood in Bradley, Arkansas, and was blessed with a large and loving family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Dorothy Dell Cook, Margaret Elaine Smith, and Mary Ann Sibley; and his son, Donald, who met him at heaven's gates, surely with arms reaching and smiling sweetly, as his favorite song goes.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 64 years, Shirley Moore Silkwood; his daughters, Sherri (Neil) and Melissa (Robbie); his grandchildren, Christy (Josh), Donald Jr., Rebekah, Jason, Madisson (B.J.), and Emily; his great-grandchildren, Tanner, Ansley, Haleigh, Peyton, Gracie, Hannah, Katie, Kennedy, and Laura Lane; and his siblings, Vennie Lucille Arrington (William), John Derril Silkwood (Patricia), and Charles Alton Silkwood (Lynn).

Raburne was quiet, caring, and a gentleman. He loved to watch the New Orleans Saints play, and was known for drinking his black coffee all day long while sitting out on the patio. Raburne was above all proud of his children. He knew every detail of their lives, and would proudly tell anyone of their many accomplishments.

He was a loving grandfather and dutifully cherished his role of greeting each with a hug and kiss until the very end; his love never waned.

Raburne lived a life of public service. His Christian faith was an essential part of his life. He served in the United States Navy for two years and after, was in law enforcement for twenty-six years. Later in life, he operated a Little Debbie franchise until he retired. Although his time here on earth was temporary, his legacy will last forever. Raburne has left a priceless stamp of character and faith on the hearts of those who loved him.

Friends are invited to join the Silkwood family for visitation and services on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Road, Long Beach. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. The Funeral Service will be at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.

Mr. Silkwood will be laid to rest at Gulf Pines Memorial Gardens in Long Beach.

There will be a Reception at the funeral home following the graveside service, approximately from 1 to 3 p.m.