John Michael Raley, 74, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the S. Mitchell Mack Hospice House after a brief fight with cancer.
He was born on July 14, 1951 in Sullivan, Mo., to the late John Everett Raley and Wanda Ruth Owen Raley. A proud graduate of Ritenour High School in Breckenridge Hills, Mo., Class of 1969, John went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and Physical Chemistry from the University of Missouri – Rolla in 1974. His impressive career included significant roles at McDonnell Douglas, Procter & Gamble, Kimberly-Clark, Cargill, Draths, and the Nordic Patent Institute and Danish Patent & Trademark Office. He was known for his expertise in product and process design, holding several patents that reflect his innovative spirit and made notable contributions in international business management and intellectual property management.
John was a dedicated member of the Masonic community, serving as Past Master of Appleton Lodge #349 and Treasurer of Mooresville Lodge #496. His active involvement extended to the Shriner organizations, including Beja, Zuhrah, and Oasis, where he delighted in riding with the Zuhrah Horsemen and participating in countless parades with his trusted mount, Ace. Additionally, he loved his years working with the Webfooters Water Ski Show team of Fremont, Wis., where he served as treasurer, boat driver and on-water safety person. His love for community service also found a home at West Church of Lake Norman, where he contributed his time to mission efforts and events, bringing joy and connection to many.
Above all, John was a man who cherished life’s simple pleasures. He loved boating with family and friends, cooking and indulging in fine food and wine, and engaging in stimulating discussions about the intricacies of business and international law. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2022, he faced his challenges head-on, embracing exercise with Rock Steady Boxing at Lake Norman Muay Thai, demonstrating his strength and resilience.
John is survived by his loving wife, Robin; brothers Gary (Darlaine) of Arnold, Mo., and Jim (Carolyn) of Southfield, Mich.; special cousin David (Mary Jane) McGan of Corydon, Ky.; as well as several nieces, nephew, great nieces and great nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents and a special cousin, Linda McGan.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 14, from 10 to 11 a.m. with a Memorial following at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home. For those unable to attend, please click the following link to view the live stream: https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/FHWBHH
In lieu of flowers, John’s family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to West Church (headingwest.org), S. Mitchell Mack Hospice (apps.hoic.org/donate-now) or the Mooresville Christian Mission (apps.hoic.org/donate-now).
John will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to his community will continue to shine through all who had the privilege to know him.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Raley family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.