JEREMY RAYL — HIS LIFE & LEGACY

Jeremy Rayl was kind, charitable, generous, and extraordinarily hospitable. In fact, describing him as hospitable feels like an understatement. He loved entertaining, having fun, and, most importantly, making sure everyone around him was having fun too. Whether he was hosting a party or picnic, planning a trip, or coordinating an event with friends, family, employees, or business associates, Jeremy believed experiences were better when they were shared. Boating, skiing, sporting events, concerts, trips to the beach, dinners out—whatever he was doing, he wanted to include as many people as possible.

Jeremy especially loved the holidays. Halloween and Christmas were favorites, and his enthusiasm for decorating could completely take over the house. He loved hosting Christmas, Easter, and trick-or-treat events with the office and absolutely loved dressing up for Halloween.

He also loved good food. King crab legs and a perfectly cooked steak were favorites, although he could have happily eaten Taco Bell and pizza seven days a week. I knew I was in love when he told me Taco Bell was a delicacy.

Jeremy was a gamer in every sense of the word—video games, cards, ping pong, pool, board games, and arcades. Somehow, he seemed to be good at everything. He was incredibly smart, and even when he lacked a particular talent, he could usually find a way to win with his wits. Losing to him could be infuriating, especially at backgammon, when I was convinced he absolutely did not deserve to win.

And then there were Ohio sports. Jeremy had an undeniable passion for his teams. Of all the games and sporting events we experienced together, nothing will ever compare to standing just feet away from LeBron James holding the championship trophy, tears running down both of our cheeks.

Jeremy was equally passionate about his family. He was incredibly excited to welcome Jacob into our lives and looked forward to having more children. He took fatherhood seriously from the beginning—creating estate plans, establishing a 529 college savings plan, and seemingly mapping out Jacob’s entire future. At the same time, he loved the simple, silly parts of being a dad. He would dress Jacob in ridiculous outfits, like Tigger, for no particular reason and proudly take him to the circus or a Cavs game just to show him off. Jacob was top dog in our house.

One of the qualities I admired most about Jeremy was his intellect. He was the person people turned to when they needed thoughtful, sound advice. I would often overhear him helping a friend navigate a job search, evaluate a business opportunity or investment, review a business plan, or better understand financials. He loved business and strategy, and I was constantly captivated by his ideas.

Jeremy was curious about the world and always informed. Whether the subject was business, economics, the market, world news, sports trades, or politics, he had something thoughtful to contribute. I loved debating and bantering with him, and I deeply miss those conversations.

But my favorite thing about Jeremy was simply his true nature. Behind closed doors, when there was no audience and no recognition to be gained, Jeremy was still kind. He rarely spoke negatively about others, even when something was personal. He chose to believe the best in people. He forgave. He gave people opportunities. He helped others without needing attention for doing so.

Jeremy was a loyal friend, a savvy businessman, a caring and patient family member, a loving father, a responsible partner, and the most inspiring husband. My love, admiration, and respect for him continue to grow.

Rayl Charitable Organization was created to ensure that the qualities Jeremy brought into the lives of others—kindness, generosity, friendship, inclusion, and a genuine love of bringing people together—continue to have an impact.

Through RCO, we hope to honor his legacy, share the spirit in which he lived, and keep his memory alive by doing what came so naturally to Jeremy: bringing people together and making life a little better for those around us.