Raymond (Rance) Lawrence Nymeyer passed from this life on October 25, 2026. He was born to Virginia and Lawrence Nymeyer in Loving, New Mexico, in February of 1947. He lived a life of service to his Lord Jesus Christ and to his country.
After graduation from Carlsbad High School, he attended the U.S. Air Force Academy for one year before enrolling in Texas A&M University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a commission in the United States Marine Corps as a Second Lieutenant.
He served in the Marine Corps for 30 years. His service included the war in Viet Nam, Desert Shield/Storm, the Iran (hostages) rescue mission, and as a Marine One pilot for Presidents Carter and Ford. He retired with over 4300 hours of helicopter flight time. He loved his country and his military brothers and sisters. After retirement from the Marine Corps, he flew medical transport helicopters for 9 years.
Following this second retirement, he enjoyed flying his experimental airplane, building an experimental helicopter, doing church work, gardening, having coffee with his veteran buddies, and traveling over much of the world.
He was a member of Second Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, an usher, and a greeter, and of several military and flight organizations.
He is survived by the love of his life, Judy, his sisters, Virginia Nymeyer and Laura Cahenzli (Mark), a nephew, Kyle Cahenzlie (K’Lee), a niece, Christianne Cahenzli, a great niece, Christina Robertson, and other family members. A memorial service is planned for November 7, 11:00 a.m. at Second Baptist Church. A graveside service is planned for November 6, at 10:00, at the West Texas Veterans Cemetery.
The family is forever grateful to Lacey, Angelina, and the staff at Angel’s Arms, and to Jessica, Bert and the members of Bridge Hospice.
Donations can be made to Second Baptist Church, Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 19 Scholarship Fund, or a charity of your choice.
Posted online on October 29, 2026
Published in Lubbock Avalanche-Journal