NAGS HEAD — Keith Mason “Scooter” Raynor Jr., of Kill Devil Hills, NC, passed away on April 19, 2025, at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC. His family lost their beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, son, and best friend.
Scooter did everything a person could do from being a professional surfer, owning and operating coffee shops, surfboard shaper/surf shop owner, to finally owning and operating a successful paint company for the last decade.
His story was unprecedented, and he was truly a miracle. Battling a rare medical condition followed by a double lung transplant and dialysis, Scooter never gave up during the nineteen-year health battle. He approached each day with unwavering faith and hope in Jesus Christ and immense love for his family. It’s been said Scooter was the world’s most optimistic man, and if you knew him, you know it’s true.
Scooter is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Melanie; his five children, Jake, Jesse, Bo, Ella, and Ava Raynor; his beloved dog, Stella; granddaughter, Violet Raynor; mother, Bonnie Collins and stepfather Mojo Collins; brother, Shane Collins (Karen), niece and nephews (Kai, Seth, and Keana); aunt and uncle Linda and Joe Horton, cousins Elissa Sturchio and Wyatt Horton (and families); mother in law, Sally Batts; and extended family and friends worldwide.
Scooter never met a stranger. His love for friends and family was larger than life, the world is dimmer in his absence.
The family is planning a memorial service/paddle out on the Outer Banks. The service and paddle out, Celebration of Life, honoring Scooter, will take place Thursday, May 15, 2025, in the Oceanview Hall, upstairs at Jennette’s Pier at 4 pm. Paddle out on the beach to follow.
